Intelligent sensor-driven processing of organic matter for the smart home

ABSTRACT

Embodiments disclosed herein provide an organic matter processing apparatus and method for the use thereof to convert organic matter into a ground and desiccated product. This can be accomplished using a bucket assembly that can grind, paddle, and heat organic matter contained therein. An algorithm is used to control the conversion of organic input to organic output by progressing through processing states based, in part, on time windows, runtimes, and sensor inputs.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO A RELATED APPLICATION

This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 63/239,852, filed Sep. 1, 2021, the disclosure of whichis incorporated herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This patent specification relates to an organic matter processingapparatus, and more particularly to an algorithm for controllingconversion of organic matter to an organic output.

BACKGROUND

Individuals, groups of people, and families living and eating in theirrespective residences generate resident-based organic matter thatdegrades into methane—a powerful greenhouse gas—without oxygen. Theseharmful emissions can be avoided by diverting the resident-based organicmatter such as uneaten or spoiled food from landfills. One way to divertfood and other organic matter from landfills is to process the food andother organic matter into a partially desiccated product using aconventional food recycler or food grinder. These conventional foodrecylers and food grinders, however, are not efficient in processingfood and other organic matter.

The food industry (e.g., restaurants, grocery stores, etc.) has followedmany traditional paths for handling food. For example, the food industrystrives to prevent food from non-use or spoil by attempting to sell thefood according to a first in first out method where older product isprioritized by sale. If the food is fit for consumption, such food maybe provided to a food bank or charity. If the food is unfit for humanconsumption, but is safe for use as animal feed, the food can be used asanimal feed. If the food is unsafe for human consumption and for animalfeed, the food can be turned into compost. If the food is unsuitable forcomposting, the food may be converted into energy through anaerobicdigestion (e.g., microorganisms convert the food into a biogas). Lastly,the food can be sent to a landfill if any of the other options are notviable. Each of these paths, however, require transportation ofnon-desiccated (and relatively heavy) food matter to the appropriatefacilities. The volume and weight of the food may require use of heavyinternal combustion engine trucks—thereby further contributing togreenhouse gas—to transport the food. In addition, the heavy trucksfurther increase wear and tear on roads and other infrastructure, andrequire costs for manpower and equipment.

Accordingly, what is needed is a residential or consumer orientedorganic matter processing apparatus capable of efficiently andconsistently rendering an end product that is curated according tospecific properties to enable lightweight and lowcost shipping of theend product for use in a regulatory approved upcycling process.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Embodiments disclosed herein provide an organic matter processingapparatus and method for the use thereof to convert organic matter intoa ground and desiccated product. This can be accomplished using a bucketassembly that can grind, paddle, and heat organic matter containedtherein. A fan is provided to dry out the organic matter. An algorithmis used to control the conversion of organic input to organic output byprogressing through processing states based, in part, on time windows,runtimes, and sensor inputs.

A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the embodimentsdiscussed herein may be realized by reference to the remaining portionsof the specification and the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 includes a high-level illustration of an organic matterprocessing apparatus in accordance with various embodiments according toembodiment.

FIG. 2A includes a perspective view of an organic matter processingapparatus that includes a lid in a closed position according toembodiment.

FIG. 2B includes another perspective view of the organic matterprocessing apparatus with the lid in an open position according toembodiment.

FIG. 3A includes a perspective view of an organic matter processingapparatus without its bezel to illustrate one possible location for theexhaust hood that extends over an intake vent according to embodiment.

FIG. 3B illustrates how, when the bezel is installed in the organicmatter processing apparatus, air in the processing chamber can flowunderneath the bezel into a space above the edge of the receptacle andthen downward through the used-air intake vent according to embodiment.

FIG. 4A includes isometric front and rear perspective views of anorganic matter processing apparatus where the durable housing istransparent to show additional details according to embodiment.

FIG. 4B includes a conceptual diagram that identifies possible locationsfor different types of sensors according to embodiment.

FIG. 5 includes a perspective view of a processing chamber thatcomprises a receptacle (also referred to as a “bucket”) designed to fitsecurely within the durable housing of an organic matter processingapparatus according to embodiment.

FIG. 6 includes a top view of a processing chamber that includes abucket with a handle pivotably connected thereto according toembodiment.

FIG. 7 includes a top view of a cavity in a durable housing thatincludes a mechanical coupling and an electrical coupling according toembodiment.

FIG. 8 includes a side profile view of a bucket in which organic mattercan be deposited according to embodiment.

FIG. 9 includes front perspective views of an organic matter processingapparatus with the lid in a closed position and an open positionaccording to embodiment.

FIG. 10 includes an example of an operating diagram that illustrates howcontrol parameters can be dynamically computed in accordance with anintelligent time recipe in order to process the contents of an organicmatter processing apparatus according to embodiment.

FIG. 11 illustrates a network environment that includes a controlplatform according to embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a computing systemin which at least some operations described herein can be implementedaccording to embodiment.

FIG. 13 shows a simplified illustrative block diagram of an OMPA andairflow paths according to an embodiment.

FIG. 14 shows an illustrative block diagram showing sensors andcomponents of an OMPA according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 15A-15C show a table identifying a component or sensor, itsfunction, and its associated data according to an embodiment.

FIG. 16 shows an illustrative block diagram of a MCU and a safetymonitor according to an embodiment.

FIG. 17A shows tables illustrating the first subset of feedbackdesignated specifically to the safety monitor and second subset offeedback designated specifically to the MCU according to an embodiment.

FIG. 17B shows tables illustrating which components can serve as safetyprotocol components and which components can be controlled by the MCUaccording to an embodiment.

FIG. 18 shows a process for enforcing a safety protocol according to anembodiment.

FIGS. 19A-19C show an illustrative process for enforcing a safetyprotocol in an OMPA according to an embodiment.

FIG. 20 shows several co-dependent component relationships that may beevaluated as part of a step in FIG. 19C according to an embodiment.

FIG. 21 shows a sequence of steps that may be executed following a stepin FIG. 19B according to an embodiment.

FIG. 22 shows an illustrative process for controlling heat of the bucketaccording to an embodiment.

FIG. 23 shows examples of lid closure enforcement according to anembodiment.

FIG. 24 shows an illustrative process for controlling the OMPA accordingto an OMPA algorithm to produce OMPA output according to an embodiment.

FIG. 25 shows an illustrative schematic diagram of various inputs thatare provided to an OMPA algorithm according to an embodiment.

FIG. 26 shows several different OMPA processing states that may beexecuted by an OMPA according to an embodiment.

FIG. 27A shows an illustrative look-up table for determining run timesfor a high intensity processing (HIP) state according to an embodimentaccording to an embodiment.

FIG. 27B shows an illustrative look-up table for determining run timesfor a sanitize processing state and a cool down processing stateaccording to an embodiment.

FIG. 28 shows an illustrative chart showing the OMPA processing states,the time windows thereof, the run times thereof, and other informationaccording to an embodiment.

FIG. 29 shows an illustrative process for producing OMPA outputaccording to an embodiment.

FIGS. 30A and 30B show an illustrative process for executing an OMPAalgorithm according to an embodiment.

FIG. 31 shows an illustrative process for handling OMPA input duringexecution a HIP state according to an embodiment.

FIG. 32 shows an illustrative process for using relative humidity datato trigger a state transition according to an embodiment.

FIG. 33 shows an illustrative timing diagram according to an embodiment.

FIG. 34 shows an illustrative timing diagram according to an embodiment.

FIG. 35 shows an illustrative table of lid heater logic according to anembodiment.

FIG. 36 shows an illustrative process operating the OMPA in a boost modeto avoid condensation or to speed up the drying process according to anembodiment.

FIG. 37 shows an illustrative timing diagram according to an embodiment.

FIG. 38 shows another illustrative timing diagram according to anembodiment.

In the appended figures, similar components and/or features may have thesame numerical reference label. Further, various components of the sametype may be distinguished by following the reference label by a letterthat distinguishes among the similar components and/or features. If onlythe first numerical reference label is used in the specification, thedescription is applicable to any one of the similar components and/orfeatures having the same first numerical reference label irrespective ofthe letter suffix.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is notintended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of thedisclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodimentswill provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description forimplementing one or more exemplary embodiments. It being understood thatvarious changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elementswithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as setforth in the appended claims.

Specific details are given in the following description to provide athorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will beunderstood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments maybe practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits,systems, networks, processes, and other elements in the invention may beshown as components in block diagram form in order not to obscure theembodiments in unnecessary detail. In other instances, well-knowncircuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques may be shownwithout unnecessary detail in order to avoid obscuring the embodiments.

Also, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as aprocess which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flowdiagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchartmay describe the operations as a sequential process, many of theoperations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition,the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process may beterminated when its operations are completed, but could have additionalsteps not discussed or included in a figure. Furthermore, not alloperations in any particularly described process may occur in allembodiments. A process may correspond to a method, a function, aprocedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. When a process correspondsto a function, its termination corresponds to a return of the functionto the calling function or the main function.

The term “machine-readable medium” includes, but is not limited toportable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, wirelesschannels and various other mediums capable of storing, containing orcarrying instruction(s) and/or data. A code segment ormachine-executable instructions may represent a procedure, a function, asubprogram, a program, a routine, a subroutine, a module, a softwarepackage, a class, or any combination of instructions, data structures,or program statements. A code segment may be coupled to another codesegment or a hardware circuit by passing and/or receiving information,data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. Information, arguments,parameters, data, etc. may be passed, forwarded, or transmitted via anysuitable means including memory sharing, message passing, token passing,network transmission, etc.

Furthermore, embodiments of the invention may be implemented, at leastin part, either manually or automatically. Manual or automaticimplementations may be executed, or at least assisted, through the useof machines, hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode,hardware description languages, or any combination thereof. Whenimplemented in software, firmware, middleware or microcode, the programcode or code segments to perform the necessary tasks may be stored in amachine readable medium. A processor(s) may perform the necessary tasks.

As defined herein, an organic matter processing apparatus (OMPA) is anaero-mechanical device operative to convert OMPA input into an OMPAoutput using judicious combinations of physical, aero, and thermalprocesses including grinding, paddling, electric heating, and airflow.

OMPA input is defined herein as predominantly organic matter that isintended for processing by the OMPA. OMPA input can include food matterand/or mixed organic matter. Food matter can include consumable fooditems such as fats, oils, sweets such as sugars and chocolates, dairyproducts such as milk, yogurt, cheese, proteins such as meat (and bonesthereof), poultry (and bones thereof), fish (and bones thereof), beans,eggs, and nuts, vegetables, fruits, and starches such as bread, cereal,pasta, and rice. Food matter is sometimes referred to as foodstuffs.Mixed organic matter can include paper or other fiber materials (e.g.,soiled napkins or paper towels), compostable resins, compostableplastics, cellulosic materials (e.g., compostable silverware), and othernon-food organic materials. OMPA input can also include other types ofbiodegradable matter (e.g., compostable diapers).

For many implementations, OMPA input may include food matter and/ormixed organic matter that is post-consumer, post-commercial, orpost-industrial in nature, matter that if not processed according to thepresent teachings could be considered as waste, garbage, refuse,leavings, remains, or scraps. By way of example, food that is leftoveron a child's dinner plate, and not in suitable condition or quantity tobe stored and served later as leftovers, can represent one example ofOMPA input. As another example, items such as potato peels, apple cores,cantaloupe rinds, broccoli stumps, and so forth, and similar organicmaterials that are spun off from the food preparation process, canrepresent other examples of OMPA input.

OMPA output is defined herein as processed organics derived fromtransformation of organic matter processed by the OMPA to yield a groundand selectively desiccated product. The processed organics can be asubstantially desiccated product having water content ranging between0.1 and 30 percent of total weight, between 5 and 25 percent of totalweight, between 5 and 20 percent of total weight, between 1 and 15percent of total weight, between 5 and 15 percent of total weight,between 10 and 15 percent of total weight, between 10 and 20 percent oftotal weight, between 15-20 percent of total weight, or between 10 and25 percent of total weight. Alternatively, the processed organics can bea substantially desiccated product having water content of less than 15percent of total weight, less than 10 percent of total weight, or lessthan 5 percent of total weight. The processed organics can exist asgranulated or ground media. One type of processed organics can be FOODGROUNDS™.

As defined herein FOOD GROUNDS™ refers to an OMPA output characterizedas having a minimum nutritional value. FOOD GROUNDS™ can be derived fromOMPA input comprised of a minimum percentage of food matter such thatthe FOOD GROUNDS™ OMPA output has the minimum nutritional value. Theminimum percentage of food matter can ensure that the FOOD GROUNDS™ OMPAoutput attains at least the minimum nutritional value. For example, ahigher nutrient value OMPA output can be more readily obtained from foodmatter than from mixed organics such as fiber materials and cellulosicmaterials.

As defined herein, an OMPA output processor repurposes the OMPA outputfor a commercial purpose. For example, the OMPA output can be used asfeed or feedstock for feed for animals or fish. In some embodiments, anOMPA output processor that receives FOOD GROUNDS™ may produce aderivative product having a higher intrinsic value (e.g., nutritional,monetary, or both nutritional and monetary) than a derivative productproduced primarily from mixed organics.

As defined herein, non-processed matter refers to matter that is notintended for processing by an OMPA or an OMPA output processor.Non-processed matter is not an OMPA input or an OMPA output. An exampleof non-processed matter can include inorganic matter such as, forexample, metals, plastics, glass, ceramics, rocks, minerals, or anyother substance that is not linked to the chemistry of life. Anotherexample of non-processed matter can be yard waste such as grassclippings, leaves, flowers, branches, or the like. In very generalterms, non-processed matter can refer to the garbage or waste that aresident or business disposes in a conventional trash bin for transportto a landfill processor, a recycle bin for transport to recyclablesprocessor, or a yard waste bin for transport to a yard waste processor.

In one embodiment, the OMPA is designed to be used primarily in aresidential context (e.g., in single family homes, townhouses, condos,apartment buildings, etc.) to convert residential based OMPA input intoresidential sourced OMPA output. Converting residential generated OMPAinput to OMPA output can have a net positive effect in the reduction ofmethane and space occupied by landfills or compost centers byredirecting the OMPA input and the OMPA output thereof away fromtraditional reception centers of such material. Moreover, because theOMPA is user friendly, aesthetically pleasing, energy efficient, clean,and substantially odor free, the OMPA provides an easy to use platformfor the residential sector to handle OMPA input (e.g., food scraps,etc.), thereby making the decision on what to do with residential basedOMPA input an easier one to handle. The OMPA can convert OMPA input intoFOOD GROUNDS overnight, where the FOOD GROUNDS are substantiallyodorless, easily transportable, and shelf-stable. The FOOD GROUNDS canremain in the OMPA until it is full, at which point the FOOD GROUNDS areremoved and transported to an OMPA processing facility, which mayconvert the FOOD GROUNDS into a higher value food product (e.g., animalfeed). It should be understood that OMPAs can be used to serve entirecommunities, cities, and industries. Use of OMPAs in these othersectors, as well as the residential sector, can result in diversion fromlandfills and further serve a goal of preventing OMPA input frombecoming waste in the first place by converting it into usable productsthat can be used to enable more resilient, sustainable food systems.

Overview of Organic Matter Processing Apparatus

FIG. 1 includes a high-level illustration of a OMPA 100 in accordancewith various embodiments. As further discussed below, OMPA 100 may havea durable housing 102 with an interface 104 through which a processingchamber 106 can be accessed. The interface 104 may serve as the ingressinterface through which OMPA input can be deposited into the processingchamber 106 and the egress interface through which the product can beretrieved from the processing chamber 106. As shown in FIGS. 2A-B, thedurable housing 102 may take the form of a roughly cylindrical containerthat has an aperture along its top end.

Instructions for operating OMPA 100 may be stored in a memory 108. Thememory 108 may be comprised of any suitable type of storage medium, suchas static random-access memory (SRAM), dynamic random-access memory(DRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM),flash memory, or registers. In addition to storing instructions that canbe executed by the controller 110, the memory 108 can also store datathat is generated by OMPA 100. For example, values generated by one ormore sensors 128 included in OMPA 100 may be stored in the memory 108 inpreparation for further analysis, as further discussed below. As furtherdiscussed below, these values may relate to characteristics (e.g.,humidity or temperature) of the air traveling through OMPA 100, andinsights into the OMPA input contained in the processing chamber 106 canbe gained through analysis of these values. Note that the memory 108 ismerely an abstract representation of a storage environment. The memory108 could be comprised of actual integrated circuits (also referred toas “chips”). When executed by a controller 110, the instructions mayspecify how to control the other components of OMPA 100 to produce OMPAoutput from OMPA input in the processing chamber 106. The controller 110may include a general purpose processor or a customized chip (referredto as an “application-specific integrated circuit” or “ASIC”) that isdesigned specifically for OMPA 100.

Generally, OMPA 100 is able to operate on its own. Assume, for example,that OMPA 100 determines that OMPA input has been deposited into theprocessing chamber 106 based on measurements output by a weight sensor(also referred to as a “mass sensor”), as further discussed below. Inresponse to such a determination, OMPA 100 may initiate processing ofthe OMPA input. Note, however, that the OMPA input need not necessarilybe processed immediately. For example, OMPA 100 may not dry and thengrind the OMPA input until a given criterion (e.g., time of day, weightof OMPA input, etc.) or combination(s) of various criteria is/aresatisfied.

While OMPA 100 may be able to operate largely, if not entirely, on itsown, there may be some situations where input from a user will behelpful or necessary. For example, the user may want to indicate whenprocessing should be temporarily halted so that additional OMPA inputcan be added to the processing chamber 106. As another example, the usermay to request that an operation be initiated or halted. For instance,the user could opt to initiate a “drying cycle” if the ambientenvironment is expected to be vacant, or the user could opt to halt a“grinding cycle” if the ambient environment is expected to be occupied.The various cycles of OMPA 100 are discussed in greater detail below.

As shown in FIG. 1 , OMPA 100 may include a control input mechanism 112(also referred to as a “data input mechanism” or simply “inputmechanism”) with which the user can interact to provide input. Examplesof input mechanisms include mechanical buttons and keypads for tactileinput, microphones for audible input, scanners for visual input (e.g.,of machine-readable codes, such as barcodes or Quick Response codes),and the like. OMPA 100 may also include a control output mechanism 114(also referred to as a “data output mechanism” or simply “outputmechanism”) for presenting information to inform the user of its status.For example, the control output mechanism 114 may indicate the currentcycle (e.g., whether OMPA input is being processed, or whether productis ready for retrieval), connectivity status (e.g., whether OMPA 100 ispresently connected to another electronic device via a wirelesscommunication channel), and the like. One example of an output mechanismis a display panel comprised of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), organicLEDs, liquid crystal elements, or electrophoretic elements. Inembodiments where the display panel is touch sensitive, the displaypanel may serve as the control input mechanism 112 and control outputmechanism 114. Another example of an output mechanism is a speaker thatis operable to output audible notifications (e.g., in response to adetermination that the product is ready for retrieval).

Some embodiments of OMPA 100 are able to communicate with otherelectronic devices via wireless communication channels. For example, auser may be able to interact with OMPA 100 through a control platform(not shown) that is embodied as a computer program executing on anelectronic device. The control platform is discussed in greater detailbelow with reference to FIG. 11 . In such embodiments, OMPA 100 mayinclude a communication module 116 that is responsible for receivingdata from, or transmitting data to, the electronic device on which thecontrol platform resides. The communication module 116 may be wirelesscommunication circuitry that is designed to establish wirelesscommunication channels with other electronic devices. Examples ofwireless communication circuitry include chips configured forBluetooth®, ZigBee®, LoRa®, Thread, Near Field Communication (NFC), andthe like.

OMPA 100 may include a power interface 118 (also referred to as a “powerport” or “power jack”) that is able to provide main power for the dryingand grinding functionality, as well as power for the other components ofOMPA 100, as necessary. The power interface 118 may allow OMPA 100 to bephysically connected to a power source (e.g., an electrical outlet) fromwhich power can be obtained without limitation. Alternatively, the powerinterface 118 may be representative of a chip that is able to wirelesslyreceive power from the power source. The chip may be able to receivepower transmitted in accordance with the Qi standard developed by theWireless Power Consortium or some other wireless power standard.Regardless of its form, the power interface 118 may allow power to bereceived from a source external to the durable housing 102. In additionto the power interface 118, OMPA 100 may include a power component 120that can store power received at the power interface 118. The powercomponent 118 could advantageously be useful to maintain some or alloperations (e.g., the state of communications and functionality ofelectronic components) in the event of a power outage. Examples of powercomponents include rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries,rechargeable nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, rechargeablenickel-cadmium (NiCad) batteries, and the like.

In order to produce an OMPA output from OMPA input, OMPA 100 (and, morespecifically, its controller 110) may control one or more dryingmechanisms 122A-N and one or more grinding mechanisms 124A-N. The dryingmechanisms 122A-N are discussed in greater detail below with referenceto FIGS. 2A-4 , while the grinding mechanisms 124A-N are discussed ingreater detail below with reference to FIG. 6 . The drying mechanisms122A-N are responsible for desiccating the OMPA input. Desiccation maynot only allow the OMPA input easier to process (e.g., grind), but alsomay prevent the formation of mold that thrives in humid conditions.Examples of drying mechanisms include heating elements that reducemoisture by introducing heat and fans that reduce moisture byintroducing an airflow. Meanwhile, the grinding mechanisms areresponsible for cutting, crushing, or otherwise separating the OMPAinput into fragments. Examples of grinding mechanisms include paddles,mixers, impellers, and rotating blades (e.g., with two, three, or fourprongs). Grinding mechanisms are normally comprised of a durablematerial, such as die cast aluminum, stainless steel, or anothermaterial that offers comparable strength and rigidity. By working inconcert, the drying and grinding mechanisms 122A-N, 124A-N can convertOMPA input into a more stable product as further discussed below.

Moreover, air may be drawn from the ambient environment into the durablehousing 102 and then expelled into the processing chamber 106 so as tohelp desiccate the OMPA input contained therein, as further discussedbelow with reference to FIGS. 2A-4 . As shown in FIG. 1 , air that isdrawn from the processing chamber may be treated using one or more airtreatment mechanisms 126A-N (also referred to as “air managementmechanisms” or “air discharge mechanisms”) before being released backinto the ambient environment.

Other components may also be included in OMPA 100. For example,sensor(s) 128 may be arranged in various locations throughout OMPA 100(e.g., along the path that the air travels through OMPA 100). Thesensor(s) 128 may include a proximity sensor that is able to detect thepresence of nearby individuals without any physical contact. Theproximity sensor may include, for example, an emitter that is able toemit infrared (IR) light and a detector that is able to detect reflectedIR light that is returned toward the proximity sensor. These types ofproximity sensors are sometimes called laser imaging, detection, andranging (LiDAR) scanners. Alternatively, the presence of an individualmay be inferred based (i) whether sounds indicative of the user aredetectable (e.g., by a passive microphone or an active sonar system) or(ii) whether an electronic device associated with the user is detectable(e.g., by the communication module 116).

OMPA 100 may adjust its behavior based on whether any individuals arenearby. For instance, OMPA 100 may change its operating state (or simply“state”) responsive to a determination that an individual is nearby. Asan example, OMPA 100 may stop driving the grinding mechanisms upondetermining that someone is located nearby. Thus, OMPA 100 couldintelligently react to changes in the ambient environment. Over time,outputs produced by the proximity sensor (plus other components of OMPA100) could be used to better understand the normal schedule ofindividuals who frequent the physical space in which OMPA is situated.

In some embodiments, OMPA 100 includes an ambient light sensor whoseoutput can be used to control different components. The ambient lightsensor may be representative of a photodetector that is able to sensethe amount of ambient light and generate, as output, values that areindicative of the sensed amount of ambient light. In embodiments wherethe control output mechanism 114 is a display panel, the values outputby the ambient light sensor may be used by the controller 110 to adjustthe brightness of the display panel.

Desiccating OMPA Input Through Airflow Generation

One core aspect of OMPA is its ability to desiccate OMPA input that isdeposited into the processing chamber. By removing moisture from theOMPA input through a judicious application of heating, grinding, mixing,and airflow according to the teachings herein, the OMPA cansubstantially halt decomposition of the OMPA input and produce a stablemass of dried-and-grinded OMPA input (hereinafter “OMPA output” or “endproduct” or simply “product”). This can be accomplished by directing anairflow through the processing chamber that causes the OMPA input tobecome increasingly dry in a predictable manner.

FIG. 2A includes a front-side perspective view of OMPA 200 that includesa lid 204 in a closed position. FIG. 2B, meanwhile, includes a rear-sideperspective view of OMPA 200 with the lid 204 in an open position. Asfurther discussed below, the lid 204 may be pivotably connected to adurable housing 202, so as to allow a user to easily expose and thencover a processing chamber 210 located inside the durable housing 202.As described further herein, OMPA 200 can be advantageously designed andconfigured such that it can be placed flush up against a wall or otherbarrier in a space-saving manner, in that it does not require gappedseparation from the wall, while at the same time maintaining the abilityfor good airflow in and out of OMPA 200.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the lid 204 may have one or more air ingressopenings 206 (or simply “openings”) through which air can be drawn fromthe ambient environment by a first fan (also referred to as a “turbulentfan”) installed therein. Here, for example, a single opening 206 islocated along a periphery of the lid 204 near a rear side of the OMPA200. Generally, the opening(s) 206 are located near where the lid 204 ispivotably connected to the durable housing 202. Advantageously, theremay be a built-in offset between a plane of the opening 206 and abackmost plane of the overall durable housing 202, whereby airflow intoOMPA 200 will not be impeded even while the backmost plane is flushagainst a wall. However, the opening(s) 206 could be located,additionally or alternatively, elsewhere along the exterior surface ofthe lid 204. For example, multiple openings may be spaced along aperiphery of the lid 204 to further ensure that sufficient air can bedrawn into the lid 204 by the first fan even if OMPA 200 is positionedproximate to an obstacle (e.g., a wall).

As shown in FIG. 2B, this air can then be expelled toward the OMPA inputthrough one or more openings 208 along the interior surface of the lid204. This will create a downward airflow that causes turbulence insidethe processing chamber 210, thereby increasing the rate at which theOMPA input is dried. The speed of the first fan may be roughlyproportional to the speed of the downward airflow (and thus, the amountof turbulence). OMPA 200 may increase the speed of the first fan ifquicker drying is desired.

Accordingly, the first fan may draw air through the opening(s) 206 inthe exterior surface of the lid 204 and then blow the air downwardtoward the OMPA input to create a turbulent airflow (also referred to asa “turbulent airstream”). This turbulent airflow may create smallvortices inside the processing chamber 210 that ensure the air continuesto move across the surface of the OMPA input.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2B, the opening(s) 208 are centrallylocated along the interior surface of the lid 204. However, theopening(s) 208 could be located elsewhere along the interior surface ofthe lid 204. For example, the opening(s) 208 may be located along oneedge of the lid 204 if the intake vent through which air is removed fromthe processing chamber 210 is located near an opposing edge of the lid204.

When in operation, air can be removed from the processing chamber 210through a used-air intake vent (not shown) in an exhaust hood that islocated beneath a bezel 212. The intake vent is further discussed belowwith reference to FIGS. 3A-B. The bezel 212 may extend around aperiphery of the durable housing 202 to “frame” the aperture throughwhich OMPA input can be deposited in the processing chamber 210. Theexhaust hood may be partially or fully obstructed when the bezel 212 isinstalled within the durable housing 202. Here, for example, the exhausthood is fully obstructed by the bezel 212, and therefore cannot beeasily viewed while the bezel 212 is installed within the durablehousing 202.

As further discussed below, a user may need to remove the bezel 212 inorder to remove the processing chamber 210 from the durable housing 202.To remove the bezel 212, the user may grasp a structural feature 220(referred to as a “lip”) that allows the bezel 212 to be readily removedby hand. The structural feature 220 may also serve other purposes. Forexample, the structural feature 220 may accommodate a locking mechanism222 that extends downward from the lid 204 into the durable housing 202.After the locking mechanism 222 extends into the durable housing 202, alatch (e.g., driven by a solenoid) may secure the locking mechanism 222in place. This may be helpful to restrict access when, for example, theOMPA 200 is operating at high intensity and contents of the processingchamber 210 are hot.

Removal of the bezel 212 may expose the exhaust hood as mentioned above.FIG. 3A includes a perspective view of OMPA 300 without its bezel toillustrate one possible location for the exhaust hood 302 that extendsover a used-air intake vent. As further discussed below, the processingchamber 306 of OMPA 300 may be representative of a receptacle that canbe removably installed within a cavity that is defined by an interiorsurface of the durable housing 308. Normally, the exhaust hood 302 islocated along the interior surface such that, when the receptable isinstalled within the cavity, the used-air intake vent is positionedproximate to an upper end of the receptable. Said another way, theexhaust hood 302 may be positioned so that the used-air intake vent isnot obstructed when the receptacle is installed within the cavity in thedurable housing 308.

At a high level, the exhaust hood 302 may be designed to guide or directair from the processing chamber 306 through the used-air intake vent fortreatment and then release into the ambient environment. A filter 304may be installed in the used-air intake vent to prevent large fragmentsof OMPA input or product from entering the odor treatment system. Thisfilter 304 may be removable. Accordingly, a user may be able to removethe filter 304 (e.g., for cleaning purposes), or the user may be able toreplace the filter 304.

FIG. 3B illustrates how, when the bezel 310 is installed in OMPA 300,air in the processing chamber 306 can flow underneath the bezel 310 intoa space above the edge of the receptacle and then downward through theused-air intake vent. Air that is removed from the processing chamber306 through the used-air intake vent can be routed through an odortreatment system (not shown) of OMPA 300 for treatment, as furtherdiscussed below with reference to FIG. 4A. Then, the treated air can beexpelled from OMPA 300 into the ambient environment. Referring again toFIG. 2 , the treated air may be expelled through one or more air egressopenings (or simply “openings”) located along an interior surface of amechanical feature 214. The interior surface of the mechanical feature214 may define a space 216 into which treated air can be expelled. Asshown in FIG. 2B, the space may not be fully enclosed. Here, forexample, the mechanical feature 214 is roughly in the form of an opencylinder, and thus may also serve as a handle along the exterior surfaceof the durable housing 202. Additionally or alternatively, opening(s)may be located along the rear surface of the durable housing 202 butoriented such that the treated air is expelled outward at an angle. Forexample, opening(s) may be located along one or both sides of a verticalpillar 218 (also referred to as a “spine”) that runs along the rear sideof OMPA 200, so that the treated air is expelled toward the sides ofOMPA 200. These designs allow treated air—which may be moister thanambient air—to exit OMPA 200 without being expelled directly onto anearby obstacle (e.g., a wall). Another benefit of these designs is that“recycling” of air is minimized by ensuring that the treated air is notexpelled toward the opening 206 in the lid 204 through which air isdrawn into OMPA 200. Advantageously, the vertical pillar 218 can servemultiple functions. The vertical pillar 218 may not only serve as amechanical offset that allows OMPA 200 to be placed adjacent toobstacles without obstructing incoming and outgoing airflow, but mayalso function as a plenum by providing a pathway along which air cantravel while inside the durable housing 202. Moreover, the verticalpillar can act as an anti-tipping mechanism by providing stability.

FIG. 4A includes isometric front and rear perspective views of OMPA 400where the durable housing is transparent to show additional details. InFIG. 4A, a trace is shown to indicate the route that air drawn from theprocessing chamber (e.g., through the exhaust hood 302 of FIG. 3 )traverses before exiting OMPA 400. There are two main chambers throughwhich the air guided as it traverses the route.

First, the air is guided through a photolysis chamber 402. In thephotolysis chamber 402, the air is exposed to light emitted by a lightsource 404 that is meant to cause the decomposition or separation ofodor-causing molecules. The light source 404 may be, for example, anultraviolet (UV) bulb or UV light-emitting diode (LED).

Second, the air is guided through a dry media chamber 406. In the drymedia chamber 406, the air is exposed to dry media that is meant to trapodor-causing molecules through a process referred to as adsorption.Examples of dry media include charcoal, coconut shell carbon, andmanganese dioxide. In addition to acting as an odor destructor, the drymedia may also act as an ozone destructor. Ozone may be generated by thelight source 404 in the photolysis chamber 402, and the dry media mayhelp to destroy that ozone.

In some embodiments, the durable housing includes a pivotable door thatpermits access to the dry media chamber 406. By opening the pivotabledoor, a user may be able to easily replace the dry media in the drymedia chamber 406. For example, the user may remove existing canistersand then reinstall new canisters that have loose granules, disks, orother particulates of the dry media stored therein. Such a design allowsthe dry media to be replaced whenever necessary.

Following treatment in the dry media chamber 406, the air may riseupward through the vertical pillar along the rear side of the OMPA 400that acts as a plenum. Then, the air can be expelled into the ambientenvironment through opening(s) located near the upper end of thevertical pillar as discussed above with reference to FIG. 2B.

Accordingly, air may initially be drawn through a used-air intake vent412 into a channel 408 by a second fan 410 (also referred to as a“blower fan”) that is located in or near the channel 408. The used-airintake vent 412 is the same used-air intake vent as mentioned above withreference to FIGS. 2-3 . The air can then be directed into thephotolysis chamber 402. Air leaving the photolysis chamber 402 can bedirected into the dry media chamber 406. In some embodiments, the air isheated by a heater 414 before it enters the dry media chamber 406 inorder to decrease moisture. This may help lengthen the lifespan of thedry media in the dry media chamber 406. After the air has been treatedin the photolysis and dry media chambers 402, 406—which collectivelyrepresent the odor treatment system—the air can be guided upward throughthe vertical pillar that acts as a plenum, and then the air can beexpelled into the ambient environment. As mentioned above, the air couldbe expelled through opening(s) along the rear surface of the durablehousing.

The first fan included in the lid of OMPA 400 and the second fan 410situated in the odor treatment system of the OMPA 400 may have variablespeeds. Accordingly, a controller (e.g., controller 110 of FIG. 1 ) maybe able to easily change the speed of the first and second fans.However, to ensure that air is drawn through the used-air intake vent412, the second fan 410 may be driven at a higher speed than the firstfan. Driving the second fan 410 at a higher speed than the first fanwill result in a pressure differential that causes air to beadvantageously drawn through the used-air intake vent 412.

In order to gain insights in the nature of the air as it travels throughOMPA 400, one or more sensors may be located along the route indicatedby the trace. FIG. 4B includes a conceptual diagram that identifiespossible locations for different types of sensors. Note that theselection and placement of sensors in FIG. 4B is provided for thepurpose of illustration, and some or all of these sensors could beincluded in OMPA 400. For example, sensors able to measure temperatureand humidity may be located proximate to the intake vent 412, the entryof the photolysis chamber 402, the channel interconnected between thephotolysis and dry media chambers 402, 406, the exit of the dry mediachamber 406, or any combination thereof. As another example, a sensorable to measure ozone may be located in the channel 408 leading to thephotolysis chamber 402 and/or the channel interconnected between thephotolysis and dry media chambers 402, 406. As another example, a sensorable to measure volatile organic compounds (VOCs) may be located alongthe route. If the VOC sensor is located before the photolysis chamber402, its measurements may be used to monitor variations in odor acrossthe lifetime of the OMPA 400. Meanwhile, if the VOC sensor is locatedafter the photolysis chamber 402, its measurements may be used todetermine the degree to which the dry media chamber 406 is responsiblefor destroying odor. Said another way, measurements produced by a VOCsensor located after the photolysis chamber 402 could be a usefulindicator of the expected lifetime of the dry media in the dry mediachamber 406. Other measurement dimensions that may be monitored bysensor(s) include carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), dioxygen(O2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), potential ofhydrogen (pH), and salinity.

Because the sensors are located along the route indicated by the trace,the odor treatment system may be able to operate as a closed loopsystem. The term “closed loop system,” as used herein, is meant todescribe a system that is able to dynamically adjust its activitiesbased on feedback to achieve a desired goal. For instance, measurementsgenerated by VOC sensors located along the route indicated by the tracemay influence how a controller (e.g., the controller 110 of FIG. 1 )controls different components of the OMPA 400. As an example, ifmeasurements generated by a VOC sensor (e.g., V2 or V3 in FIG. 4B)located after the photolysis chamber 402 indicate that the air still hasa relatively high concentration of an undesired gas, then the controllermay adjust the speed of the second fan 410 so as to change the amount oftime that the air remains in the photolysis and dry media chambers 402,406. The measurements generated by VOC sensors could also be used toinfer the condition of the photolysis and dry media chambers 402, 406.Assume, for example, that a VOC sensor is located between the photolysischamber 402 and dry media chamber 406 as shown in FIG. 4B. In such ascenario, measurements generated by the VOC sensor may be used topredict the state of the dry media included in the dry media chamber406. Said another way, measurements generated by the VOC sensor may beused to infer the amount of undesired gasses to which the dry mediacontained in the dry media chamber 406 has been exposed. Rather thansimply instruct a user to replace the dry media on a periodic basis(e.g., every month, two months, or three months), an OMPA could insteadintelligently indicate when replacement is necessary based on ananalysis of measurements generated by the VOC sensor.

While sensors could be located at various positions along the route,sensors generally should not be installed in the photolysis chamber 402.As mentioned above, the light source 402 located in the photolysischamber 402 may generate ozone as it emits light. This ozone can have asignificant oxidative effect on various sensors. As such, sensors aregenerally not installed in the photolysis chamber 402.

One or more sensors could also be installed inside the processingchamber, for example, to measure characteristics of the air above theOMPA input (i.e., air in the “headspace” of the processing chamber), Forexample, sensors could be located along the interior surface of the lid,or sensors could be located along the interior surface of the processingchamber.

Additional sensors could also be located along the route indicated bythe trace shown in FIG. 4A. For example, OMPA 400 may include atachometer that measures the rotation speed of the shift of the secondfan 410. Values output by the tachometer may be used (e.g., by thecontroller 110 of FIG. 1 ) to predict the speed at which the airflow istraveling through the OMPA 400, and therefore how to control othercomponents (e.g., the drying and grinding mechanisms 122A-N, 124A-N ofFIG. 1 ) of OMPA 400. Additionally or alternatively, OMPA 400 mayinclude a dedicated sensor that is responsible for measuring the speedof the airflow, either directly or indirectly. For example, a hot wireanemometer may be situated along the route within the airflow. The hotwire anemometer may be electrically heated to some temperature above theambient temperature. The airflow will cool the wire, and the speed ofthe airflow can be inferred based on the decrease in temperature. Asanother example, a pressure sensor may be situated along the routewithin the airflow. As the airflow contacts the pressure sensor, valuesindicative of the total force may be produced. The speed of the airflowcan be inferred based on these values.

Practical Processing Chamber

Another core aspect of the OMPA is providing a processing chamber thatnot only allows OMPA input to be processed in a consistent, predictablemanner, but is also easy to use by various individuals. FIG. 5 includesa perspective view of a processing chamber 500 that comprises areceptacle 502 (also referred to as a “bucket”) designed to fit securelywithin the durable housing of an OMPA. The bucket 502 is preferablyuser-removable from the durable housing, so as to allow for easierintegration into existing workflows. For example, the bucket 502 may beplaced on the counter during food preparation and then reinstalled inthe durable housing afterwards. As another example, the bucket 502 maybe removed from the durable housing after production of the product iscomplete to allow for easier handling (e.g., disposal, storage, or use)of the product.

Generally, the bucket 502 is designed so that, when installed in thedurable housing, OMPA input can be easily deposited by simply openingthe lid of the OMPA. Normally, the bucket 502 includes an aperture 504along its top end that is sized to allow for various forms of OMPAinput. In some embodiments, the aperture 504 has a rectangular form thatis 200-500 millimeters (mm) (7.87-19.68 inches) in length and 150-300 mm(5.90-11.81) in width. For example, the aperture 504 may have a lengthof roughly 350 mm (13.78 inches) and a width of roughly 200 mm (7.87inches). Meanwhile, the bucket 502 may have a roughly prismatic formwith a length of 250-500 mm (9.84-19.68 inches), a width of 100-300 mm(3.94-11.81 inches), and a height of 150-350 mm (5.90-13.78 inches). Forexample, the bucket 502 may have a length of roughly 320 mm (12.60inches), a width of roughly 195 mm (7.68 inches), and a height ofroughly 250 mm (9.84 inches).

Moreover, the bucket 502 may be designed to be easily washable (e.g., ina dishwasher). Thus, the bucket 502 may be comprised of one or moredurable materials that can withstand prolonged exposure to OMPA input invarious states (e.g., moist and dry), as well as repeated washings.Examples of durable materials include plastics, ceramics, metals, andbiocomposites. The term “biocomposite,” as used herein, may refer to acomposite material formed by a matrix (e.g., of resin) and areinforcement of natural fibers. Biocomposites may be well suitedbecause the matrix can be formed with polymers derived from renewableresources. For example, fibers may be derived from crops (e.g., cotton,flax, or hemp), wood, paper, and the like. This makes biocomposites anattractive option since the benefits (e.g., a focus on renewability andrecyclability) align with those offered by the OMPA.

As shown in FIG. 5 , a handle 506 may be pivotably connected to opposingsides of the bucket 502. Such a design allows the handle 506 to bepivoted downward when the bucket 502 is installed in the structural bodyof the OMPA. This can be seen in FIG. 2A, where the handle is foldeddownward to accommodate a bezel. Thus, the handle 506 may be designed soas to not impede the deposition of OMPA input into the bucket 502. Thehandle 506 may be designed to allow a user to easily carry the entireprocessing chamber 500, with either one or two hands. To ensure that theprocessing chamber 500 can be transported without issue, the bucket 502may be designed so that, when loaded with product, the weight does notexceed a threshold. The threshold may depend on the size of the bucket502 and/or the material(s) from which the bucket 502 is made, though itmay be desirable to limit the weight to no more than 10-25 pounds (andpreferably 15-20 pounds).

FIG. 6 includes a top view of a processing chamber 600 that includes abucket 602 with a handle 604 pivotably connected thereto. As mentionedabove, a OMPA may include one or more grinding mechanisms 608A-N thatare responsible for cutting, crushing, or otherwise separating OMPAinput deposited into the bucket 602 into fragments. The grindingmechanisms 608A-N may be part of the processing chamber 600 as shown inFIG. 6 . Here, for example, five grinding mechanisms are fixedlyattached to a central rod 606 that arranged horizontally across thewidth of the bucket 602 and is driven by gears (not shown), which are inturn driven by a motor (not shown). The motor may be located in thedurable housing, while the gears may be located in the bucket 602 asfurther discussed with reference to FIG. 7 .

The grinding mechanisms 608A-N can be driven in such a manner that anappropriate amount of grinding occurs. In some embodiments, theappropriate amount of grinding is predetermined (e.g., programmed inmemory of the OMPA). In other embodiments, the appropriate amount ofgrinding is determined dynamically based on a characteristic of OMPAinput in the bucket 602. For example, the appropriate amount of grindingmay be based on the amount of OMPA input (e.g., as determined based onmeasurements output by a mass sensor) contained in the bucket 602. Asanother example, the appropriate amount of grinding may be based on theamount of resistance that is experienced by the grinding mechanisms608A-N. Generally, dried OMPA input that has been at least partiallyground will offer less resistance than wet OMPA input or dried OMPAinput that has not been ground.

As the central rod 606 rotates, the grinding mechanisms 608A-N may alsorotate. Generally, the grinding mechanisms rotate at a rate of 1-10rotations per minute (RPM), at a rate of 1-2 RPMs, or 1.6 RPMS. Thisrotating action may cause OMPA input located near the bottom of thebucket 602 to be brought toward the top of the bucket 602, such that allOMPA input contained in the bucket 602 is occasionally exposed to thedownward airflow emitted from the lid.

The grinding mechanisms 608A-N may not provide sufficient shear on theirown to break apart more solid OMPA input. Examples of solid OMPA inputinclude bones, raw produce, and the like. To address this issue, thebucket 602 may include one or more stationary blades 610A-N that canwork in concert with some or all of the grinding mechanisms 608A-N.Assume, for example, that the processing chamber 600 includes at leastone paddle and at least one two-prong rotating blade. In FIG. 6 , theprocessing chamber 600 includes three paddles and two two-prong rotatingblades that are alternately arranged along the length of the central rod606. In such an embodiment, the stationary blades 610A-N may bepositioned so that as each two-prong rotating blade rotates, acorresponding stationary blade will pass through its two prongs tocreate cutting action. A side view of this scenario is shown in FIG. 6 .Paddles may also create some cutting action. However, paddles may createless cutting action than the two-prong rotating blades since (i) thepaddles are generally oriented at an angle to promote upward andsideward movement of OMPA input and (ii) the paddles generally passalongside the stationary blades 610, thereby providing less shear.

Generally, more than one type of grinding mechanism is included in theprocessing chamber 600. For example, paddles and rotating blades couldbe arranged in an alternating pattern across the width of the bucket 602so provide different functionalities. While the paddles may have limitedusefulness in terms of grinding OMPA input, the paddles may be useful inchurning OMPA input so that wetter material rises toward the top of thebucket 602. Accordingly, some “grinding mechanisms” may be primarilyresponsible for cutting OMPA input into smaller fragments while other“grinding mechanisms” may be primarily responsible for mixing the OMPAinput to promote desiccation.

In FIG. 6 , the paddles and rotating blades are shown to becoplanar—though extending from opposing sides of the central rod 606—forthe purpose of illustration. The grinding mechanisms 608A-N could beradially arranged about the periphery of the central rod 606 indifferent ways. For example, the three paddles shown in FIG. 6 could beequally spaced about the circumference of the central rod 606 to ensurethat OMPA input contained in the bucket 602 is constantly, or nearlyconstantly, jostled. Generally, the two-prong rotating blades are offsetto minimize the torque that is needed to cut through OMPA input at anygiven point in time. Said another way, the two-prong rotating blades maybe offset so that only one is actively cutting OMPA input in conjunctionwith its corresponding stationary blade 610 at a time. Here, forexample, the two two-prong rotating blades are offset by 180 degrees,though the blades could be offset by more or less than 180 degrees.

Grinding mechanisms (and the power available to those grindingmechanisms) may govern the types of OMPA input that can be handled by agiven OMPA. Generally, stronger grinding mechanisms in combination withmore power will allow heavier duty OMPA input (e.g., bones) to behandled without issue. Accordingly, different embodiments of OMPA couldbe designed for residential environments (e.g., with less power andweaker grinding mechanisms) and commercial environments (e.g., with morepower and stronger grinding mechanisms).

In some embodiments, the bucket 602 includes a thermally conductive baseportion 612 that is responsible for conveying heat to the OMPA input.Normally, the thermally conductive base portion 612 may extend up thelongitudinal sidewalls of the bucket 602 that are parallel to thecentral rod 606. In embodiments where the thermally conductive baseportion 612 is responsible for heating the OMPA input, the thermallyconductive base portion 612 may extend up the longitudinal sidewallsroughly 40-70 percent of their height. In embodiments where thethermally conductive base portion 612 is responsible for heating theOMPA input and air in the “headspace” of the processing chamber 600, thethermally conductive base portion 612 may extend up the longitudinalsidewalls roughly 70-90 percent of their height.

When the bucket 602 is installed within the durable housing, thethermally conductive base portion 612 may be electrically connected to aheating element (e.g., a resistive heating element in the form of acoil) that is located in the durable housing. FIG. 7 includes a top viewof a cavity in a durable housing 702 that includes a mechanical coupling704 and an electrical coupling 706. When installed within the cavity inthe durable housing 702, the processing chamber 600 may be connected tothe mechanical and electrical couplings 704, 706. Thus, the mechanicaland electrical couplings 704 may be detachably connectable to respectiveinterconnects on the processing chamber 600. The mechanical coupling 704may be responsible for driving gears that are located in the bucket 602,while the electrical coupling 706 may be responsible for providingelectricity to a heating element (not shown) that heats the thermallyconductive base portion 612. The heating element may be part of thebucket 602. In some embodiments, the heating element is included in thecavity of the durable housing 702. In such embodiments, the thermallyconductive base portion 612 of the bucket 602 may be heated throughcontact with the heating element. Accordingly, the thermally conductivebase portion 612 may be heated through thermo-mechanical conductiveheating or on-bucket electrical heating instead of convective heating.

A mass sensing system may be incorporated into the OMPA so that massmeasurements can be made throughout an organic matter processing cycleor anytime the bucket is present within the OMPA. The mass sensingsystem may include one or more mass sensors such as, for example,piezoelectric mass sensors. Alternatively, the mass sensing system mayinclude a strain gauge mass sensor.

One or more mass sensors are normally located along the bottom of theOMPA (e.g., on each “foot” where the OMPA terminates along asubstantially planar level). These mass sensor(s) can be used to measurethe weight of the OMPA (and thus, the weight of contents of theprocessing chamber). However, because the bucket 602 can be removableinstalled within the durable housing, mass sensors could additionally oralternatively be located along the bottom of the bucket 602. As anexample, a mass sensor may be located on each “foot” of the bucket 602.Regardless of location, the mass sensor(s) included in the OMPA maycontinually or periodically output measurements that can be used tocalculate, infer, or otherwise establish the total weight of the bucket602 (including any OMPA input stored therein). These measurements can becommunicated to a controller (e.g., controller 110 of FIG. 1 ). Thecontroller may determine how to control other components of the OMPA(e.g., its drying and grinding mechanisms) based on these measurements.For example, the controller may determine how long to perform highintensity processing based on the rate at which the weight lessens dueto loss of moisture. Mass sensing may play an important role in ensuringthat the OMPA can dynamically react to changes in the state of the OMPAinput.

FIG. 8 includes a side profile view of a bucket 802 in which OMPA inputcan be deposited. A handle 804 may be pivotably connected to opposingsides of the bucket 802. The handle 804 may allow the bucket 802 to beeasily removed from the OMPA as discussed above, as well as easilyconveyed to another location. The bucket 802 may also have structuralfeatures 806 that terminate along a substantially planar level. Thesestructural features 806 (also referred to as “feet”) may help stabilizethe bucket 802. Moreover, these structural features 806 may include thecorresponding interconnects for the mechanical and electrical couplings704, 706 discussed above with reference to FIG. 7 . Such a design notonly allows the corresponding interconnects to be readily aligned withthose couplings, but also ensures that the structural features 806 canprotect the corresponding interconnects when the bucket 802 is removedfrom the OMPA. As mentioned above, while mass sensor(s) are normallyinstalled along the bottom of the OMPA in which the bucket 802 is to beinstalled, mass sensor(s) could additionally or alternatively beinstalled within some or all of these structural features 806 to measurethe weight of the bucket 802 and its contents.

As shown in FIG. 8 , the cavity defined by the interior surface of thebucket 802 may not necessarily by symmetrical across the longitudinaland latitudinal planes defined therethrough. For reference, the term“latitudinal plane” may be used to refer to the plane that issubstantially parallel to the handle 804 while extended upward as shown.Meanwhile, the term “longitudinal plane” may be used to refer to theplane that is substantially orthogonal to the latitudinal plane. Forexample, the cavity may be more gradually tapered along one end to forma lip 808 (also referred to as a “spout”). The spout may allow a user toempty contents from the bucket 802 by simply tipping it along one end.

This gradual tapering along one end may also create a space 810 alongone end of the bucket 802 in which components can be installed. Forexample, the gears that are responsible for driving the central rod thatextends through the cavity may be located in this space 810. In additionto conserving valuable space within the bucket 802 (and OMPA as awhole), locating the gears in the space 810 will also add weight to oneend of the bucket 802. This added weight may make it easier for the userto rotate the bucket 802 along that end to empty contents via the lip808.

Practical Lid

An important aspect of increasing adoption is that the OMPA should beeasily deployable and operable. The component with which many users willinteract most frequently is the lid (e.g., lid 204 of FIG. 2 ).Accordingly, it is important that the lid be easy to use but also offersome functionality.

As an example, a user may not only be able to open the lid with herhands, but also by interacting with an electro-mechanical pedal switchthat is accessible along the front side of the OMPA. FIG. 9 includesfront perspective views of OMPA 900 with the lid 902 in a closedposition and an open position. As shown in FIG. 9 , anelectro-mechanical pedal switch 904 (or simply “pedal switch”) may belocated along the front side of OMPA 900. When a user applies pressureto the pedal switch 904 (e.g., with her foot), the lid 902 may beelectro-mechanically actuated to the open position. As further discussedbelow, the open position may be one of multiple open positions to whichthe lid 902 can be actuated. When the user stops applying pressure tothe pedal switch 904, the lid 902 may automatically close. The lid 902may not close immediately, however. Instead, the lid 902 may beelectro-mechanically actuated to the closed position a short interval oftime (e.g., several seconds). Thus, the pedal switch 904 may allow thelid 902 of the OMPA 900 to be partially, if not entirely, operated in ahands-free manner.

As another example, the lid may be controllably lockable, for example,via a damped mechanism with a smooth spring-loaded retraction. Assume,for example, that the OMPA is performing high intensity processing wherethe processing chamber is heated. In such a situation, the lid mayremain locked so long as the temperature of the processing chamber (orits contents) remains above a threshold (e.g., programmed in memory).This locking action may serve as a safety mechanism by ensuring that auser cannot easily access the interior of the OMPA under unsafeconditions. Note, however, that the user may still be able to overridethis locking action (e.g., by interacting with an input mechanismaccessible along the exterior of the OMPA).

As another example, air may be “sucked” downward whenever the lid isopened, thereby preventing odors from escaping into the ambientenvironment. This action may be particularly helpful in preventing odorsfrom escaping the OMPA when the lid is opened mid-cycle (i.e., while theOMPA input is being dried or ground). This action can be initiated by acontroller based on one or more outputs produced by a sensor that islocated proximate to where the lid contacts the durable housing when inthe closed position. For example, a sensor could be located along theperiphery of the lid, and its output may be indicative of whether thelid is adjacent to the durable housing (i.e., in the closed position).As another example, a sensor could be located along the periphery of thedurable housing, and its output may be indicative of whether the lid isadjacent to the durable housing (i.e., in the closed position).

As another example, the lid may be intelligently controlled based on theintent of a user as inferred by the OMPA. Assume, for example, that theuser either partially opens the lid by pivoting the lid roughly 30-75degrees with respect to its original location or softly presses on apedal switch (e.g., pedal switch 904 of FIG. 9 ). In such a situation,the OMPA may infer that the user is interested in performing ashort-duration activity and then actuate the lid to a first angle (e.g.,60 degrees or 75 degrees). Examples of short-duration activities includedepositing more OMPA input in the processing chamber or observing theOMPA input in the processing chamber. Now, assume that the user eitherfully opens the lid by pivoting the lid roughly 90 degrees with respectto its original location or firmly presses on the pedal switch. In sucha situation, the OMPA may infer that the user is interested inperforming a long-duration activity and then actuate the lid to a secondangle (e.g., 90 degrees). Examples of long-duration activities includeremoving the processing chamber and cleaning the interior of the OMPA.Similarly, if the lid is actuated to the first angle and the OMPA theninfers that the user is likely interested in performing a long-durationactivity (e.g., based on removal of the bezel), then the lid may beactuated to the second angle. Accordingly, the OMPA may automaticallyfurther open the lid responsive to a determination that the user intendsto access the interior for a longer period of time.

Similarly, the OMPA may control how quickly the lid closes based on theintent of the user. If the OMPA infers that the user is interested inperforming a short-duration activity, the OMPA may maintain the lid in agiven position (e.g., at the first angle) for a first amount of time. Ifthe OMPA infers that the user is interested in performing along-duration activity, the OMPA may maintain the lid in another givenposition (e.g., at the second angle) for a second amount of time. Thefirst amount of time may be 2-10 seconds, while the second amount oftime may be 10-60 seconds.

Overview of Operating States

Over time, the OMPA may cycle between various states to process OMPAinput. As mentioned above, the OMPA may be able to convert OMPA inputinto a relatively stable product (e.g., food grounds) by drying andgrinding the OMPA input. The control parameters for drying or grindingthe OMPA input may be dynamically computed (e.g., by the controller 110of FIG. 1 ) as a function of the outputs produced by sensors tasked withmonitoring characteristics of the air traveling through the OMPA, aswell as the mass or weight of the OMPA input in the processing chamber.For example, the control parameters could be dynamically computed as afunction of (i) humidity of the air traveling through the OMPA, (ii)temperature of the air traveling through the OMPA, and (iii) weight ofOMPA input contained in the OMPA. FIG. 10 includes an example of anoperating diagram that illustrates how control parameters can bedynamically computed in accordance with an intelligent time recipe inorder to process the contents of an OMPA.

As mentioned above, the OMPA may be able to intelligently cycle betweendifferent states to process OMPA input. Six different states aredescribed in Table I. Those skilled in the art will recognize, however,that embodiments of the OMPA may be able to cycle between any number ofthese states. For example, some OMPAs may only be able to cycle betweentwo, three, or four of these states, while other OMPAs may be able tocycle between all six states.

The OMPA may rely on a single target criterion or multiple targetcriteria to determine when to cycle between these states. The targetcriteria could be programmed into the memory of the OMPA, or the targetcriteria could be specified by a user (e.g., through an interfacegenerated by a control platform). Examples of target criteria includemoisture level, temperature, and weight. Using moisture level as anexample, there may be multiple preset moisture levels (e.g., 10, 20, 30,and 40 percent) from which the target criterion could be selected (e.g.,based on the nature of the OMPA input). The OMPA may not measuremoisture of the OMPA input, but can instead predict or infer themoisture based on, for example, the humidity of air traveling throughthe OMPA and the weight of OMPA input. The OMPA could also rely on theaverage times for completion of these states. Assume, for example, thatthe OMPA receives input indicative of a request to process OMPA inputdeposited into the processing chamber. In such a situation, the OMPA maydetermine when to schedule the various states based on (i) how longthose states have historically taken to complete and (ii) the weight ofthe OMPA input, among other factors. For example, the OMPA may attemptto schedule high intensity processing to be completed overnight as thegrinding mechanisms may operate at a noise that might disturb nearbyindividuals.

State Identifier Priority (ID) State Description P1 High Intensity Goal:Achieve the target moisture Processing (HIP) level at a giventemperature and reduce mass and volume of OMPA input. Details:Temperature, airflow, and/or grinding mechanisms can be set to highsettings. HIP normally takes at least several hours to complete, so theOMPA may attempt to schedule overnight. HIP may be triggered manually(e.g., via an interaction with an input mechanism, or via an instructionprovided through the control platform) or automatically (e.g., based ona determination that the weight of the OMPA input exceeds a threshold).P2 Sanitize Goal: Kill at least a predetermined number (e.g., greaterthan 99 percent) of pathogens. Details: Temperature of bucket heater andspeed of the grinding mechanism may be higher than that of thetemperature and speed used in HIP. The lid fan may not be activatedduring sanitization. Executed after HIP cycle. P4 Fixed Time Low Goal:Advance drying in a non- Intensity Processing intrusive manner whileindividuals (LIP) are more likely to be nearby (e.g., during daylighthours). Details: Operate the grinding mechanism for a fixed period oftime before activating HIP to catch any obvious grinder jams due to hardinputs. P5 Burst Grind/Daytime Goal: Incorporate wet (e.g., Grind LIPunprocessed) OMPA input into dry (e.g., processed or semi-processed)OMPA input to make drying easier. Details: Lid Fan and Bucket Heater maybe turned off and the grinding mechanisms is set to operate at a slowerspeed to mix newly added OMPA input with previously processed OMP input.P7 Standby Goal: OMPA apparatus is turned off. Details: Grindingmechanism, fans, and heaters are turned off, unless necessary to meetsome other criterion. For example, airflow and/or grinding mechanismsmay be occasionally triggered to maintain an odor criterion. P3 CooldownGoal: Allow the user to handle the processing chamber. Details: Settingsare similar to standby, though airflow may be higher if necessary tocool the processing chamber or the product stored therein. Bucket heateris turned off and grinder mechanism may operate at same speed as a LIPcycle. Executed after Sanitize cycle. P6 Vacation Mode HIP Goal:Preserve integrity of the OMPA output when OMPA apparatus is maintainedan unused state. Details: Run a short HIP cycle once every X number ofdays when the OMPA apparatus is not opened and/or no OMPA input isadded.

As mentioned above, the durations of these states can be dynamicallydetermined based on, for example, analysis of outputs generated bysensors housed in the OMPA. However, the durations of these states arepredefined—at least initially—in some embodiments. For example, highintensity processing may be programmed to occur for a certain amount oftime (e.g., 4, 6, or 8 hours), and burst grind may be programmed tooccur for a certain amount of time (e.g., 30 seconds, 5 minutes, 30minutes) whenever new OMPA input is added. Those skilled in the art willalso recognize that the duration of some states could be dynamicallydetermined, while the duration of other states could be predefined. Asan example, the OMPA may continue performing high intensity processinguntil the target criteria are achieved. However, whenever new OMPA inputis added, the OMPA may cycle to burst grind for a certain amount of time(e.g., 30 seconds, 5 minutes, 30 minutes) before reverting back to itsprevious state.

Overview of Control Platform

In some situations, it may be desirable to remotely interface with aOMPA. For example, a user may want to initiate high intensity processingif she is not at home and does not expect to return home for an extendedduration (e.g., several hours). This could be done through a controlplatform that is communicatively connected to the OMPA. Thus, the usermay be able to interact with the OMPA through the control platform.Through the control platform, the user may also be able to viewinformation regarding the OMPA (e.g., its current state, averageduration of each state, how much OMPA input has been processed over agiven interval of time, current weight of the bucket and its contents)through interfaces that are generated by the control platform.

FIG. 11 illustrates a network environment 1100 that includes a controlplatform 1102. For the purpose of illustration, the control platform1102 may be described as a computer program that is executing on anelectronic device 1104 accessible to a user of OMPA 1112. As discussedabove with reference to FIG. 1 , OMPA 1112 may include a communicationmodule that is responsible for receiving data from, or transmitting datato, the electronic device 1104 on which the control platform 1102resides.

Users may be able to interface with the control platform 1102 viainterfaces 1106. For example, a user may be able to access an interfacethrough which information regarding OMPA 1112 can be viewed. Thisinformation may include historical information related to pastperformance (e.g., total pounds of OMPA input that has been processed),or this information may include state information related to currentactivity (e.g., the current state of OMPA 1112, an indication of whetherOMPA 1112 is presently connected to the electronic device 1104, anindication of whether OMPA 1112 is presently locked). Thus, a user maybe able to educate herself on the OMPA and its contents by reviewingcontent posted to interfaces generated by the control platform 1102.

Moreover, a user may be able to access an interface through whichinstructions can be provided to OMPA 1112. Said another way, the usermay be able to specify, through the control platform 1102, when or howOMPA 1112 should process OMPA input stored therein. As an example, theOMPA 1112 may initially be configured to perform high intensityprocessing between 10 PM and 8 AM under the assumption that its ambientenvironment will generally be devoid of individuals during thattimeframe. However, the user may be able to adjust aspects of setup oroperation of OMPA 1112 through the control platform 1102. For instance,the user could specify that high intensity processing should not beginuntil 2 AM, or the user could specify that high intensity processingshould not end after 6 AM.

A user could also program, through the control platform 1102, apreference regarding the weight at which to empty the processing chamberof OMPA 1112. On its own, the processing chamber may weigh 8-10 pounds.The total weight of the processing chamber (including its contents) canquickly become unwieldy for some users, such as elderly individuals andjuvenile individuals. Accordingly, the control platform 1102 may permitusers to define a weight at which to generate notifications (alsoreferred to as “alarms”). Assume, for example, that a user indicatesthat the total weight of the processing chamber (including its contents)should not exceed 15 pounds through an interface generated by thecontrol platform 1102. In such a scenario, the control platform 1102 maymonitor mass measurements received from OMPA 1112 and then generate anotification in response to determining that the total weight of theprocessing chamber (including its contents) is within a certain amountof 15 pounds. The certain amount may be a fixed value (e.g., 1 pound or2 pounds), or the certain amount may be a dynamically determined value(e.g., 5 percent or 10 percent of the weight specified by the user).

The notification could be presented in various ways. In embodimentswhere the control platform 1102 is implemented as a computer programexecuting on an electronic device 1104 as shown in FIG. 11 , thenotification may be generated by the computer program (e.g., in the formof a push notification). Additionally or alternatively, the controlplatform 1102 may transmit an instruction to OMPA 1112 to generate thenotification. Accordingly, the notification could be a visual, audible,or tactile notification that is generated by the electronic device 1104or OMPA 1112.

As shown in FIG. 11 , the control platform 1102 may reside in a networkenvironment 1100. Thus, the electronic device 1104 on which the controlplatform 1102 is implemented may be connected to one or more networks1108A-C. These networks 1108A-C may be personal area networks (PANs),local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), metropolitan areanetworks (MANs), cellular networks, or the Internet. Additionally oralternatively, the electronic device 1104 could be communicativelyconnected to other electronic devices—including OMPA 1112—over ashort-range wireless connectivity technology, such as Bluetooth, NFC,Wi-Fi Direct (also referred to as “Wi-Fi P2P”), and the like.

In some embodiments, at least some components of the control platform1102 are hosted locally. That is, part of the control platform 1102 mayreside on the electronic device 1104 that is used to access theinterfaces 1106 as shown in FIG. 11 . For example, the control platform1102 may be embodied as a mobile application that is executable by amobile phone. Note, however, that the mobile application may becommunicatively connected to (i) OMPA 1112 and/or (ii) a server system1110 on which other components of the control platform 1102 are hosted.

In other embodiments, the control platform 1102 is executed entirely bya cloud computing service operated by, for example, Amazon WebServices®, Google Cloud Platform™, or Microsoft Azure®. In suchembodiments, the control platform 1102 may reside on a server system1110 that is comprised of one or more computer servers. These computerservers can include different types of data (e.g., regarding batches ofproduct that have been produced by OMPAs associated with differentusers), algorithms for implementing the routine described above (e.g.,based on knowledge regarding ambient temperatures, humidity, etc.),algorithms for tailoring or training the routine described above (e.g.,based on knowledge gained from nearby OMPAs or comparable OMPAs), andother assets (e.g., user credentials). Those skilled in the art willrecognize that this information could also be distributed amongst theserver system 1110 and one or more other electronic devices. Forexample, some data that is generated by a given OMPA may be stored on,and processed by, that OMPA or an electronic device that is “paired”with that OMPA. Thus, not all data generated by OMPAs—or even thecontrol platform—may be transmitted to the server system 1110 forsecurity or privacy purposes.

One benefit of having a network-connected OMPA is that it enablesconnectivity with other electronic devices, and thus integration intorelated systems.

Assume, for example, that a user purchases and then deploys a OMPA in ahome. This OMPA may include a set of instructions (also referred to asthe “intelligent time recipe”) that, when executed, indicate how itscomponents are to be controlled. These instructions may involve theexecution of heuristics, algorithms, or computer-implemented models.Rather than learn best practices “from scratch,” the OMPA (or a controlplatform to which it is communicatively connected) may be able to learnfrom the experiences of other OMPAs. These OMPAs may be located nearby,and therefore may experience comparable ambient conditions such ashumidity, temperature, and the like. Alternatively, these OMPAs may becomparable, for example, in terms of amount of actual or expected OMPAinput, type of actual or expected OMPA input, number of users (e.g., asingle individual versus a family of four individuals), etc. Thus,knowledge may be shared among OMPAs as part of a networked machinelearning scheme. Referring again to the above-mentioned example, theOMPA may initiate a connection with a control platform after beingdeployed in the home. In such a scenario, the control platform mayprovide another set of instructions that is learned based on knowledgegained by the control platform from analysis of the activities of otherOMPAs. Accordingly, the control platform may further develop instructionsets based on machine learning. Learning may be performed continually(e.g., as OMPAs perform activities and generate data), and insightsgained through learning may be provided continually or periodically. Forinstance, the control platform may communicate instructions to a OMPAwhenever a new set is available, or the control platform may communicatea new set of instructions to an OMPA only upon receiving input (e.g.,from the corresponding user) indicating that the OMPA is not operatingas expected.

As another example, assume that a municipality is interested incollecting the products produced by various OMPAs for further processing(e.g., composting). In such a scenario, the municipality may beinterested in information such as the weight and water content ofproduct that is available for collection. Each OMPA may not only havethe sensors needed to measure these characteristics as discussed abovebut may also have a communication module that is able to transmitmeasurements elsewhere. In some embodiments, these OMPA directlytransmit the measurements to the municipality (e.g., by uploading to anetwork-accessible data interface, such as an application programminginterface). In other embodiments, these OMPAs indirectly transmit themeasurements to the municipality (e.g., by forwarding to respectivecontrol platforms, which then transmit the measurements—or analyses ofthe measurements—onward to the municipality). With these measurements,the municipality may be able to retrieve, transport, and handle theproducts produced by these OMPAs in a more intelligent manner. Forexample, the municipality may have a better understanding of whenretrieval needs to occur, and how much storage space is needed for theproducts, if the weight is shared.

Users may also be able to communicate with one another, directly orindirectly, through OMPA. Assume, for example, that a first OMPA hasfinished processing its OMPA input into a product. Although processingis complete, a corresponding first user may not be ready to offload theproduct. In such a situation, a second user who is located nearby (e.g.,as determined based on information generated by the respective OMPA,information input by the respective users, etc.) may offer to handle theproduct. For instance, the second user may retrieve the product from thefirst user and then handle it, add it to her own product, etc. Users maybe able to communicate through the interfaces 1106 generated by thecontrol platform 1102, or users may be able to communicate directlythrough their respective OMPAs.

Computing System

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a computing system1200 in which at least some operations described herein can beimplemented. For example, components of the computing system 1200 may behosted on an OMPA that is tasked with converting OMPA input into a morestable product. As another example, components of the computing system1200 may be hosted on an electronic device that is communicativelyconnected to an OMPA.

The computing system 1200 may include a controller 1202, main memory1206, non-volatile memory 111210, network adapter 1212, displaymechanism 1218, input/output (I/O) device 1220, control device 1222,drive unit 1224 including a storage medium 1226, and signal generationdevice 1230 that are communicatively connected to a bus 1216. The bus1216 is illustrated as an abstraction that represents one or morephysical buses or point-to-point connections that are connected byappropriate bridges, adapters, or controllers. The bus 1216, therefore,can include a system bus, a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) busor PCI-Express bus, a HyperTransport or industry standard architecture(ISA) bus, a small computer system interface (SCSI) bus, a universalserial bus (USB), inter-integrated circuit (I2C) bus, or an Institute ofElectrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standard 1394 bus (alsoreferred to as “Firewire”).

While the main memory 1206, non-volatile memory 1210, and storage medium1226 are shown to be a single medium, the terms “machine-readablemedium” and “storage medium” should be taken to include a single mediumor multiple media (e.g., a database distributed across more than onecomputer server) that store instructions 1228. The terms“machine-readable medium” and “storage medium” shall also be taken toinclude any medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carryinginstructions for execution by the computing system 1200.

In general, the routines executed to implement the embodiments of thepresent disclosure may be implemented as part of an operating system ora specific computer program. Computer programs typically compriseinstructions (e.g., instructions 1204, 1208, 1228) that are set atvarious times in various memory and storage devices in an electronicdevice. When read and executed by the controller 1202, the instructionscause the computing system 1200 to perform operations to execute variousaspects of the present disclosure.

The network adapter 1212 enables the computing system 1200 to mediatedata in a network 1214 with an entity that is external to the computingsystem 1200 through any communication protocol that is supported by thecomputing system 1200 and the external entity. The network adapter 1212can include a network adaptor card, wireless network interface card,router, access point, wireless router, switch, protocol converter,gateway, bridge, hub, digital media receiver, repeater, or anycombination thereof.

FIG. 13 shows a simplified illustrative block diagram of OMPA 1300 andairflow paths according to an embodiment. OMPA 1300 can include lidassembly 1310, bucket assembly 1320, air treatment system 1330, and masssensor system 1340. Lid assembly 1310 may be akin to lid 204 of FIG. 2 ,embodiments discussed below, and FIGS. 16A-26 discussed in U.S.Provisional Application No. 63/392,339, filed Jul. 26, 2022, entitled“Lid Assembly, Air Treatment System, and Airflow control system for anOrganic Matter Processing Apparatus and Method for the use thereof,”hereinafter referred to as the “'339 application,” the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Bucket assembly 1320may be akin to processing chambers of FIGS. 5-7 and the bucket of FIG. 8and embodiments disclosed in U.S. Provisional Application No.63/313,946, filed Feb. 25, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporatedby reference in its entirety. Air treatment system 1330 may be akin tothe air treatment system discussed above in connection with FIGS. 3A,3B, 4A, and 4B, embodiments discussed in detail below, and FIGS. 27A-32of the '339 application.

OMPA 1300 has a length corresponding to an X axis, a width correspondingto a Z axis, and a height corresponding to a Y axis.

Lid assembly 1310 can open and close a movable lid. The movable lid canbe opened in response to a user command (e.g., pressing of a pedal atthe bottom of OMPA 1300) to enable the user to deposit OMPA input intobucket assembly 1320 or to remove bucket assembly 1320. When the movablelid is closed, OMPA 1300 may engage OMPA input processing. Lid assembly1310 may be responsible for controlling a first airflow path in whichambient air is pulled into lid assembly 1310 by first fan 1312 anddirected into bucket assembly 1320. The first air flow path forces airinto bucket assembly 1320 to assist bucket assembly 1320 in thedesiccation of any OMPA input that is being processed by bucket assembly1320. Bucket assembly 1320 is operative to cut and grind and heat OMPAinput to convert it to OMPA output. Lid assembly 1310 may optionallypreheat the ambient air using a heater (not shown) prior to directingthe air into bucket assembly 1320. The heated air may further assistbucket assembly 1320 with processing OMPA input to produce OMPA output.Heating the ambient air also reduces the moisture content of the airbeing injecting into bucket assembly 1320 and the moisture of the airbeing treated by air treatment system 1330. Reducing the moisturecontent of the air circulating in the OMPA can improve efficiency ofOMPA input processing and air treatment.

Air treatment system 1330 may be responsible for controlling a secondairflow path in which untreated air is drawn from bucket assembly 1320by second fan 1332 and directed through air treatment chamber 1334,which converts the untreated air to treated air that is exhausted awayfrom OMPA 1300. As defined herein, untreated air refers to air that hasbeen in the vicinity of bucket assembly 1320 and has potentially beenimparted with particles or compounds that have odorous qualities. Asdefined herein, treated air refers to air that been “scrubbed” or“cleaned” of particles or compounds that have odorous qualities. Airtreatment chamber (ATS) 1334 can one or more of an activated carbonchamber and an ultraviolet light chamber. Air treatment system 1330 mayheat the untreated air using a heater (not shown) to reduce moisturecontent of the untreated air before it the air is pushed through anactivated carbon filter (not shown). The activated carbon filter canextract odor causing molecules from the air as it passes through thefilter such that treated air is exhausted out of OMPA 1300.

When lid assembly 1310 is in a closed configuration and OMPA 1300 ismanaging operations that require use of first fan 1312 and second fan1332, OMPA 1300 may ensure that a negative pressure differential ismaintained between inlet air and exhausted air. This negative pressuredifferential can be achieved by operating second fan 1332 at a higherairflow rate (e.g., higher cubic feet per minute (CFM)) than first fan1312. In other words, the airflow rate (or volume) of treated airexiting out of OMPA 1300 is greater than the airflow rate (or volume) ofambient air being pulled into OMPA 1300. This can ensure that airtreatment system 1330 controls the flow of air from bucket assembly 1320to the exhaust port and prevents any untreated air from prematurelyexiting OMPA 1300.

Mass sensing system 1340 may be responsible for obtaining massmeasurements of the OMPA. Mass measurements can be made throughout anorganic matter processing cycle or anytime the bucket is present withinthe OMPA. The mass sensing system may include one or more mass sensorssuch as, for example, piezoelectric mass sensors. Alternatively, themass sensing system may include a strain gauge mass sensor. One or moremass sensors are normally located along the bottom of the OMPA (e.g., oneach “foot” where the OMPA terminates along a substantially planarlevel). These mass sensor(s) can be used to measure the weight of theOMPA (and thus, the weight of contents of the processing chamber). Themass sensor(s) included in the OMPA may continually or periodicallyoutput measurements that can be used to calculate, infer, or otherwiseestablish the total weight of the bucket (including any OMPA inputstored therein). These measurements can be communicated to a controller(e.g., controller 110 of FIG. 1 ). The controller may determine how tocontrol other components of the OMPA (e.g., its drying and grindingmechanisms) based on these measurements. For example, the controller maydetermine how long to perform high intensity processing based on therate at which the weight lessens due to loss of moisture. Mass sensingmay play a key role in ensuring that the OMPA can dynamically react tochanges in the state of the OMPA input. Additional details of how massor weight measurements are used, collected, and communicated by the OMPAare discussed in more detail below.

FIG. 14 shows an illustrative block diagram showing sensors andcomponents of OMPA 1400. The sensors are operative to provide sensorbased data to a processor such as, for example, master control unit(MCU) 1402 or safety monitor 1404. The components can be classifiedaccording to two different data types: feedback data and control data.Components (e.g., switches) may be dedicated specifically to onlyproviding feedback data (e.g., switch is either ON or OFF). Othercomponents can provide both feedback to a processor and be controlled bya processor. For example, the bucket motor may be controlled by aprocessor (e.g., MCU 1402). The inputs provided by the processor to themotor may be used as control data. In addition, during operation of thebucket motor, the electrical characteristics (e.g., current consumption,torque load, etc.) of the bucket motor can be used as feedback data. Yetother components may be dedicated specifically to only being controlledand are not able to provide feedback data. The sensors and componentsare strategically placed within OMPA 1400 to reliably procure feedbackdata and control data for use in various operational embodimentsdiscussed herein. The sensors and components are discussed inconjunction with FIGS. 15A-15C, which shows a table identifying thecomponent or sensor, its function, and its associated data.

Lid assembly 1410 can include lid VOC sensor 1411 a, lid temperaturesensor 1411 b, lid humidity sensor 1411 c, lid heater 1412, lid fan1413, lid switch_1 1414, lid switch_2 1415, latch switch 1416, solenoid1417, physical safety switch 1418, and lid motor with encoder 1419 a. Insome embodiments, volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor 1411 a may be astandalone sensor that resides on shared circuit board with lidtemperature sensor 1411 b and humidity sensor 1411 c. VOC sensor 1411 amay be selected to monitor a subset of potential VOCs. In a furtherembodiment, lid temperature sensor 1411 b and humidity sensor 1411 c canbe integrated into a single sensor that monitors both temperature andhumidity. The monitored humidity can be absolute humidity or relativehumidity. VOC sensor 1411 a, temperature sensor 1411 b, and humiditysensor 1411 c may positioned with lid assembly 1410 to monitor aircharacteristics of the optionally heated ambient air being forced intobucket assembly 1420. For example, sensors 1411 a-1411 c may bepositioned next to an access port of a manifold that directs theoptionally heated ambient air into bucket assembly 1420. See FIG. 21 ofthe '339 application, which show an access port in a manifold wheresensors 1411 a-1411 c can monitor air characteristics.

Lid heater 1412 and lid fan 1413 may operate under the control of MCU1402 and provide electrical characteristics feedback to MCU 1402 and/orsafety monitor 1404

Lid switch_1 1414 may be a mechanical switch that detects whether thelid is closed. Switch 1414 may be tactile switch that is depressed whena movable portion of the lid is fully closed. In one embodiment, switch1414 may be depressed when a latch interfaces with switch 1414 when thelid is closed. See, for example, FIG. 16A of the '339 application. Lidswitch_2 1415 may be hall effect switch that electrically detectswhether the lid is closed. In one embodiment, a magnet may be includedin the latch or other portion of the movable lid and the hall effectswitch can detect the presence of the magnet when the lid is closed.See, for example, FIG. 16C of the '339 application. In some embodiments,OMPA 1400 may include only one of switch 1414 and switch 1415 becauseswitches 1414 and 1415 are redundant.

Latch switch 1416 may be a mechanical switch that detects whether alatch sliding block, which is designed to interface with the latch, hassuccessfully locked the lid. Solenoid 1417 may be operative to move thelatch sliding block along a track depending on whether the MCU instructsthe solenoid 1417 to lock the latch of the lid. When the latch slidingblock is positioned in the locked position, the latch sliding block candepress latch switch 1416, confirming that the latch is locked. See FIG.16A of the '339 application for example embodiment of the latch switch,solenoid, and latch sliding block.

In one embodiment, physical safety switch 1418 may be a mechanicalswitch that detects whether the lid is closed. Switch 1418 may bemounted on the rear of OMPA 1400 and is operative to interface with anactuation arm that causes the lid to open and close. Switch 1418 may beactivated when the lid is closed and deactivated when the lid is open.In another embodiment, physical safety switch can be anelectromechanical switch such as, for example, a reed switch that canplaced near the top of the bucket assembly (e.g., next to the airtreatment system inlet port). A reed switch can detect a magnet securedin the lid when the lid is closed. For example, the presence of themagnet can cause the reed switch to close and open when the magnet is nolonger next to the switch. In one embodiment, physical safety switch1418 can activate/disable AC cutoff 1497 and DC cutoff 1496independently of safety monitor 1402 and MCU 1402. Incorporatingphysical safety switch 1418 adds yet another layer of safety to the OMPAthat does not need to rely on the safety monitor or the MCU.

Lid motor 1419 is a component that can operate under the control of MCU1402. The motor can provide electrical characteristics feedback to MCU1402 and/or safety monitor 1403. Encoder 1419 a can also providefeedback data to MCU 1402. Encoder 1419 a can indicate the position ofthe lid.

It should be noted that the components and sensors that are associatedwith lid assembly 1410 are merely illustrative and that some componentsor sensors may be omitted. For example, in an embodiment where a motoris not used to open or close the lid, but a mechanical linkage actuationsystem is used to open and close the lid, lid motor 1419 and encoder1419 a can be omitted. In this embodiment, physical safety switch 1418can be repurposed to detect operation of the mechanical actuation systemto provide feedback as to whether the lid is open.

Bucket assembly 1420 can include heater 1421, cutoff switches 1422,temperature sensor_1 1423 a, temperature sensor_2 1423 b, bucket motor1424, electrical interface 1425, position sensor 1426, and bucketpresent switch 1427. Heater 1421 may be a component that is controlledby MCU 1402 to impart heat into a bucket being used to process OMPAinput. Electrical characteristics of heater 1421 may be provided to MCU1402, safety monitor 1404, or both. Cutoff switches 1422 may beintegrally formed within heater 1421 and are operative to open theheater circuitry to prevent thermal runaway. If cutoff switches 1422 areopened, the electrical characteristics of heater 1421 (e.g., the opencircuit) can be provided as feedback data. Temperature Sensor_1 1423 aand temperature sensor_2 1423 b may be components that providetemperature feedback data. Two temperature sensors provide redundantheater 1421 monitoring.

Bucket motor 1424 may be a component that operation under the control ofMCU 1402 to drive a cut and paddle assembly (not shown) to grind and cutOMPA input contained in the bucket. Bucket motor 1424 may be powered byDC source 1498. Electrical characteristics of bucket motor 1424 may beprovided as feedback data. For example, the current draw, torque output,and speed of bucket motor 1424 may be provided as feedback data.Electrical interface 1425 may be provide a conduit through which powerand signals are routed. For example, AC power supplied by AC source 1499may be provided heater 1421. Signals provided by sensors 1423 a and 1423b may be provided to MCU 1402 or safety monitor 1404. In someembodiments, electrical interface 1425 may include a switch or sensorthat can detect whether the bucket is inserted or removed. Such a switchor sensor can be used as feedback data.

Blade position sensor 1426 may provide feedback indicating the positionof the cut and paddle assembly (not shown) within the bucket. In someembodiments, position sensor 1426 can be implemented using a magnet andHall Effect sensor. The magnet may be mounted to or within a gear thatturns in conjunction with the cut and paddle assembly. When the magnetpasses by the Hall Effect sensor, this can trigger a response indicativeof cut and paddle assembly's orientation within the bucket. In anotherembodiment, position sensor may be embodied as an encoder that monitorsthe position of bucket motor 1424. Based on the encoder information, theposition of the cut and paddle assembly can be inferred.

Bucket present switch 1427 can provide feedback indicating whether thebucket is present. The bucket can be removed from and inserted into theOMPA. Switch 1427 can confirm the bucket status: present or not present.In some embodiments, bucket present switch 1427 can be omitted andbucket detection can be determined by examining an electricalcharacteristic of electrical interface 1425. For example, a thermistormay exist within electrical interface 1425. The thermistor can provideinformation that identifies whether the bucket is present.

It should be noted that the components and sensors that are associatedwith bucket assembly 1420 are merely illustrative and that somecomponents or sensors may be omitted, new components or sensors may beadded, or the positioning of one or more sensor or components can berearranged with the OMPA. For example, in one embodiment, the bucket canbe relatively simple device devoid of a heater and associatedtemperature sensors. In this embodiment, the heater and temperaturesensors be positioned adjacent to the bucket when the bucket is insertedinto the OMPA.

Air treatment system 1430 can include ATS inlet VOC sensor andtemperature/humidity sensor 1431, ATS outlet VOC sensor andtemperature/humidity sensor 1432, and ATS fan 1433. Sensors 1431 and1432 can perform the same function as sensors 1411 a-1411 c as discussedabove. Sensor 1431 may be positioned to monitor characteristics of airentering the air treatment system. For example, sensor 1431 may bepositioned at an inlet port the enables untreated air emanating from thebucket to enter the air treatment system. Sensor 1432 may be positionedto monitor characteristics of air exiting the air treatment system. Forexample, sensor 1432 may be positioned downstream from an air treatmentchamber (e.g., an activated carbon media chamber). Sensors 1431 and 1432can provide feedback data on VOCs, temperature, and humidity ofmonitored air.

It should be noted that the components and sensors that are associatedwith air treatment system 1430 are merely illustrative and that somecomponents or sensors may be omitted, added, or repositioned within theOMPA.

Mass sensing system 1440 can include mass sensors 1441 and printedcircuit board (PCB) with processor and temperature sensor 1442. Masssensors 1441 can provide mass measurement feedback. In one embodiment,the mass measurements can be provided to PCB with processor andtemperature sensor 1442, which processes the mass measurements based ona temperature measured by the on board temperature sensor. Thetemperature corrected mass measurement can be provided as feedback datato MCU 1402 or safety monitor 1404. Additional details of mass sensingsystem 1440 are discussed below.

OMPA 1400 can include pedal sensor switch 1450 that operative to detecta user initiated event to open the lid. When the user depresses a pedalto initiate a lid open event, the depression of the pedal can triggerpedal sensor switch 1450, which provide feedback indicating that theuser desires to open the lid. Pedal sensor switch 1450 can be used in anOMPA embodiment that uses a motor (e.g., motor 1419) to open and closethe lid or in an OMPA embodiment that uses a mechanical linkageactuation system (sans motor) to open and close the lid.

OMPA 1400 can include DC cutoff 1496 and AC cutoff 1497. DC cutoff 1496and AC cutoff 1497 may be controlled by MCU 1402, safety monitor 1404,or both. DC cutoff 1496 can be operative to disconnect DC source 1498from received by various DC supplied components within OMPA 1400. Forexample, when DC source cutoff 1496 is activated, DC power may be cutfrom supplying bucket motor 1424 and any other DC powered component(e.g., fan 1413 or fan 1433). AC cutoff 1497 can be operative todisconnect AC source 1499 from being received by various AC suppliedcomponents within OMPA 1400. For example, AC power to heater 1421 andheater 1412 may be cutoff when AC cutoff 1497 is activated.

MCU 1402 may be a firmware controller designed to control the OMPA andprovide safety features. MCU 1402 is intended to be the primarycontroller of the OMPA and is capable of detecting safety concerns andhandling them as appropriate. MCU 1402 may be responsible forcontrolling the OMPA input to OMPA output conversion process,controlling on-board displays, controlling wireless communications,monitoring component health, and all other general purpose functionalityof the OMPA. Safety monitor 1404 serves as a hardware backup to MCU 1402to ensure safe operation of the OMPA in the event MCU 1402 is notfunctioning properly or bypassed.

Safety monitor 1404 can be ROM based circuitry designed to providehardware based safety functionality for the OMPA. Safety monitor 1404may operate independently of MCU 1402 by operating in response tovarious safety monitor inputs. Safety monitor 1404 can operate as ahardware watchdog by requiring all threads to check in on a periodicbasis. The threads may be associated with various sensors and componentsin the OMPA. If any thread fails, safety monitor 1404 may initiate areboot of OMPA 1400.

FIG. 16 shows an illustrative block diagram of an MCU, a safety monitor,the inputs provided to the MCU and the safety monitor, and thecomponents that are controlled by the MCU and the safety monitoraccording to an embodiment. MCU 1610 can receive MCU specified feedbackdata 1612 as inputs. MCU specified feedback data can include feedbackdata provided by a first subset of the sensors or components (asdiscussed in connection with FIGS. 14 and 15A-15C). MCU 1610 can controloperation of various MCU controlled components, as shown in box 1640.Some of MCU controlled components 1640 may be designated as safetyprotocol components 1645. Safety protocol components 1645 may be turnedoff via signal control or such components may have their power supplycutoff by AC cutoff 1630 or DC cutoff 1635. Examples of safetycomponents can include a bucket motor, a bucket heater, a lid fan, a lidheater, an ATS fan, or any other suitable component. Safety monitor 1620can receive safety monitor specified feedback data 1622 as inputs.Safety monitor specified feedback data 1622 can include feedback dataprovided by a second subset of sensor or components. In one embodiment,the first and second subsets can be mutually exclusive in that there areno feedback data sources shared among MCU 1610 and safety monitor 1620.In another embodiment, first and second subsets can be configured suchthat one or more feedback data sources are shared among MCU 1610 andsafety monitor 1620. Safety monitor 1620 can control operation ofcomponents that are jointly controlled by MCU 1610 and safety monitor1620, as shown in box 1630. MCU 1610 and safety monitor 1620 cancommunicate with each other. For example, a “heart beat” signal may beexchanged between MCU 1610 and safety monitor 1620 to indicate that MCU1610 and/or safety monitor 1620 are operating properly.

MCU 1610 and safety monitor 1620 can jointly control AC cutoff 1630 andDC cutoff 1635. For example, if MCU 1610 receives data in its MCUfeedback 1612 that indicates a safety protocol should be enforced, MCU1610 can instruct safety protocol components 1645 to stop operating viasignal control and MCU 1610 can enable power cutoff to safety protocolcomponents 1645 by engaging AC cutoff 1630 and DC cutoff 1635. If safetymonitor 1620 receives data in its safety monitor 1622 that indicates asafety protocol should be enforced, safety monitor 1620 can enable powercutoff to safety protocol components 1645 by engaging AC cutoff 1630 andDC cutoff 1635.

FIG. 17A shows a table 1710 illustrating the first subset of feedbackdesignated specifically to the safety monitor according to anembodiment. As shown, the safety monitor specified feedback can includea first lid switch for detecting whether the lid is closed (e.g., lidsensor 1414), a first temperature sensor for monitoring temperature ofthe bucket (e.g., temperature sensor_1 1423 a), a bucket present switchfor detecting whether the bucket is present (e.g., bucket present switch1427), and backup switch for detecting whether the lid is closed (e.g.,physical safety switch 1418). The four safety monitor inputs identifiedin table 1710 can enable the safety monitor to effectively monitoressential “checkpoints” for ensuring safe and optimal operation of theOMPA. Limiting the number of safety monitor inputs to just four inputssimplifies the logic and wiring interfacing requirements for the safetymonitor, thereby ensuring that the safety monitor is configured in arobust and simple manner.

FIG. 17A also shows table 1720 illustrating the second subset offeedback designated specifically to the MCU according to an embodiment.Some of this feedback may be used for enforcing a safety protocol whileother feedback may be used for executing operation of the OMPA. Asshown, the MCU specified feedback can include a latch switch (e.g.,latch switch 1416), a second lid switch (e.g., lid switch_2 1415), asecond temperature sensor for monitoring temperature of the bucket(e.g., temperature sensor_2 1423 b), the lid VOC sensor andtemperature/humidity sensor (e.g., sensors 1411 a-1411 c), the ATS inputVOC sensor and temperature/humidity sensor (e.g., 1431), the ATS outputVOC sensor and temperature/humidity sensor (e.g., 1432), the pedalswitch (e.g., switch 1450), the mass sensors (e.g., sensors 1441),temperature compensation processor (e.g., PCB 1442), the position sensorindicating the position of the cut and paddle assembly (e.g., 1426), thelid motor encoder (e.g., encoder 1419 a), and the electricalcharacteristics of the bucket motor (e.g., motor 1424), the lid motor(e.g., motor 1419), electrical connection (e.g., interface 1425), lidfan (e.g., fan 1413), lid heater (e.g., heater 1412), and the ATS fan(e.g., fan 1433).

FIG. 17B shows table 1730 illustrating which components can serve assafety protocol components. One or more of these components can beturned off or powered off during enforcement of a safety protocol. Thesafety protocol can be enforced by turning the components off (e.g.,through use of control signals) or by cutting power to the components.These components can include an AC power cutoff (e.g., 1499), a DC powercutoff (e.g., 1498), the bucket heater for heating the bucket (e.g.,1421), the bucket motor for turning the cut and paddle assembly (e.g.,bucket motor 1424), the lid motor for opening and closing the lid (e.g.,lid motor 1419), the lid heater for heating ambient air being pushedinto the bucket (e.g., lid heater 1412), the lid fan for drawing inambient air from outside the OMPA (e.g., lid fan 1413), the airtreatment fan for pulling in untreated air from the bucket (e.g., ATSfan 1433), and the latch lock (e.g., solenoid 1417 for locking thelatch). In one embodiment, components such as the lid motor, lid heater,bucket heater, bucket motor, ATS fan, and latch lock may be deactivatedwith control signals. When the AC and DC power cutoffs are activated,then the power being supplied to those components may be cutoff, therebyensuring that the components cannot be activated.

Table 1740 illustrates which components can be controlled by the MCU.These components can include, the bucket motor, the bucket heater, thelid motor, the lid fan, the lid heater, the latch lock, the ATS fan,wireless communications, on device display(s). The MCU may control thesecomponents to execute operations of the OMPA. When the MCU sends controlsignals to a particular component (e.g., the bucket motor) to perform anaction (e.g., rotate in a first direction at a predetermined speed), theelectrical characteristics of that component can be feedback to the MCUas input. This way, the MCU can monitor whether the component isoperating as expected (e.g., continues to rotate in the first directionat the predetermined speed) or if there are conditions present thatrequire a change in control signals (e.g., reverse direction of themotor) being provided to that component.

It should be understood the list of components in table 1740 is notexhaustive and that additional components may be controlled by the MCU.For example, the mass sensors may be controlled by the MCU.

FIG. 18 shows a process for enforcing a safety protocol according to anembodiment. Process 1800 can begin by determining whether the lid of theOMPA is open at step 1810. This determination can be made by the MCU,safety monitor, or both. The MCU is provided with MCU specified feedbackdata and the safety monitor is provided with safety monitor specifiedfeedback data. If the MCU, in response to detecting a lid open event inthe MCU specified feedback data, or if the safety monitor, in responseto detecting a lid open event in the safety monitor specified feedbackdata, the MCU or the safety monitor can cut power to the bucket motorand bucket heater (and any other component as deemed necessary such asthe lid fan, lid heater, and ATS fan), as indicated in step 1820.Cutting power to at least the bucket motor and the bucket heater ensuresthat the safety protocol is enabled whenever the lid is open. Process1800 may revert back to step 1810 after power is cut.

If at step 1810, it is determined that the lid is closed, process 1800may determine whether predetermined conditions are met before power canbe restored to the bucket motor and the bucket heater (and any othercomponents that may have had their power cut) at step 1830. Thepredetermined conditions can include verification of whether the bucketis present, whether all feedback data that provides lid closure data isin agreement, whether the latch is locked, and any other suitablecriteria. If the determination at step 1830 is NO, process 1800 mayrevert back to step 1810. If the determination at step 1830 is YES,power may be restored to the bucket motor and the bucket heater (and anyother components that may have had their power cut) at step 1840.Process 1800 may revert back to step 1810 after power is restored.

It should be understood that the steps shown in FIG. 18 are illustrativeand the order of the steps may be changed, additional steps may beadded, or steps may be omitted.

FIGS. 19A-19C show an illustrative process 1900 for enforcing a safetyprotocol in an OMPA according to an embodiment. Process 1900 may beimplemented in an OMPA outfitted with sensors, components, a MCU, and asafety monitor such as that described above in connection with FIG. 14 .Process 1900 may evaluate a first lid switch, a second lid switch, aphysical safety switch, and lid motor encoder to determine whether a lidis open or closed, at indicated by step 1902. If, at any time, adetermination is made that the lid is open, process 1900 proceeds tosteps 1904 and 1906. At step 1904, a bucket motor can be stopped throughuse of control signals, and at step 1906, a bucket heater can be stoppedwith control signals. Thus, if either the bucket motor or bucket heaterwas in operation at the time of the lid open event, control signalsstopping its operation are provided to stop its operation. In additionto stopping operation of the bucket motor and the bucket heater viacontrol signals, DC power is cut from being supplied to the bucket motor(at step 1905) and AC power is cut from being supplied to the bucketheater (at step 1907). In some embodiments, power (regardless of whetherthe power is AC or DC) can be cut to the bucket motor, the bucketheater, and any other components selected for being cutoff from a powersource when the lid is determined to be open.

If the lid is closed, process 1900 can determine if the latch is lockedat step 1910. If the latch is not locked, process 1900 returns to steps1904-1907. If latch is determined to be locked, process 1900 maydetermine if the bucket is present at step 1912. If the bucket is notpresent, process 1900 returns to steps 1904-1907. If the bucket isdetermined to be present, process 1900 may determine whether allcomponents are reporting in as operating normally at step 1914. Forexample, the report in can be part of a thread assessment implemented bythe safety monitor. If there is an issue with one or more components,process 1900 returns to steps 1904-1907, otherwise process 1900 canproceed to step 1920 (as shown in FIG. 19B).

At step 1920, a determination is made as to whether mass readings arestable. Stable, unchanging, mass readings may be required to confirmthat the OMPA input is suitable for OMPA processing and that the OMPA ispositioned on a stable surface. If the mass readings are not stable, thelid may be opened and the user may be alerted at step 1922, and thenprocess 1900 returns to steps 1904-1907. If mass readings are stable atstep 1920, process 1900 may execute OMPA processing at step 1924. OMPAprocessing may operate according to an OMPA processing schedule providedby step 1926.

While OMPA processing is being executed, the monitoring of sensors andcomponents can be performed in step 1930. In particular, lid, ATS inlet,and ATS outlet VOC sensors and temperature/humidity sensors can bemonitored at step 1931. The bucket motor operation can be monitored atstep 1932. The bucket heater operation can be monitored at step 1933.The mass sensors can be monitored at step 1934. The ATS fan operationcan be monitored at step 1935. The lid fan and lid heater operation canbe monitored at step 1936. The monitoring can be performed in real-timeso that a safety protocol can be enforced (in step 1950 of FIG. 19C) andso that the OMPA processing parameters can be adjusted based on themonitoring, at step 1940. The OMPA processing parameters can follow arecipe or a OMPA processing cycle to convert OMPA input to OMPA outputthe data acquired during the monitoring steps 1930-1936 can be used asinputs for controlling and monitoring the conversion process.

Step 1950 can represent enforcement of a safety protocol while the OMPAis operating (e.g., executing OMPA processing) by monitoring variousspecific feedback data and components to ensure their compliance withpredetermined operating criteria. If the feedback and components areoperating within the predetermined operating criteria, process 1900 canproceed back to step 1924. If, however, any of the feedback orcomponents are not operating with the predetermined operating criteria,process 1900 may revert back to steps 1904-1907.

Step 1950 can be sub-divided into steps 1951-1955, as shown in FIG. 19C.Step 1951 may determine whether the bucket motor is operating withinpredetermined operating criteria. For example, predetermined operatingcriteria for the bucket motor can include a maximum current draw for aspecified period of time, a maximum torque load for a specified periodof time, and an unjamming procedure (e.g., used to re-mobilize the cutand paddle assembly if OMPA matters includes a substance that does notfacture cut in a first instance). Step 1952 may determine whether thebucket heater is operating within predetermined operating criteria. Forexample, the bucket heater may operate with in a fixed temperaturerange. If the heater falls below that range or exceeds it while insteady state operation, then process 1900 may return to steps 1904-1907.

Step 1953 may determine if feedback data provided by the lid, ATS inlet,and ATS outlet VOC sensors and temperature/humidity sensors are withinpredetermined operating criteria. For example, if a VOC sensor detects anoxious or flammable gas, the OMPA may be shut down via steps 1904-1907and the user may be informed. As another example, if a humidity sensordetects a high level of humidity for a prolonged period of time, suchdata may infer that excessive liquid has been deposited into the OMPAand that the OMPA should be shut down via steps 1904-1907 and the useris informed of the issue.

Step 1954 may determine if all other components (e.g., lid fan, lidheater, ATS fan) are operating according to predetermined criteria. Forexample, if the ATS fan is unable to move a minimum volume of air for aunit of time, this may indicate that there is an issue with the ATS fanor that there an air leak within the ATS. Such an ATS fan issue maytrigger shutdown of the OMPA, alert, or both.

Step 1955 may determine whether co-dependent components are operatingwith predetermined operating conditions. Co-dependent componentoperation refers to a requirement that two or more components beoperating together to ensure safe operation of the OMPA. FIG. 20 showsseveral co-dependent component relationships that may be evaluated aspart of step 1955. Step 2010 may confirm that the lid fan is operatingbefore activating the lid heater. Step 2020 can confirm that the bucketmotor is running before activating the bucket heater. For example, theOMPA may be permitted to cut and grind OMPA matter for a fixed period oftime while bucket is not being actively heated by the bucket heater, butthe bucket heater is not permitted to run when the cut and paddleassembly is stationary. Step 2030 can confirm that the lid fan isoperating before activating the bucket heater. This requirement may beenforced to ensure that bucket does not get too hot during operations.For all steps that are confirmed the process can revert to step 1924,and for steps that are not confirmed, the process may be revert to steps1904-1907.

FIG. 21 shows a sequence of steps that may be executed following step1930 of FIG. 19B according to an embodiment. In step 2110, the receiptof OMPA input can be detected via the mass sensors. At step 2120, adetermination can be made as to whether the mass of the OMPA inputcontained in the bucket is above a predetermined threshold. For example,if the user adds only a modest quantity of food scrap (e.g., a crust ofbread), as measured by the mass sensors before and after the lid hasbeen opened and closed, then it may be preferable not to fully activateOMPA processing. For example, the OMPA input may be cut, but theoperation of the bucket heater may be suspended (as shown in step 2130)if the weight is below the predetermined threshold. This way, the OMPAis prevented from inadvertently charring the OMPA input by prematurelyactivating the bucket heater. If the determination in step 2120 is YES,the process can proceed to step 1924. After step 2130, the process canproceed to step 1924.

It should be understood that the steps shown in FIGS. 19A-19C, 20, and21 are illustrative and the order of the steps may be changed,additional steps may be added, or steps may be omitted.

FIG. 22 shows an illustrative process 2200 for controlling heat of thebucket according to an embodiment. At step 2210, the OMPA input issanitized according to a fixed time and temperature schedule. Thesanitizing process ensures any bacteria in the OMPA bucket and OMPAoutput is destroyed. This process requires that the bucket and contentstherein be subjected to relatively high heat. The lid fan, lid heater,bucket motor, and bucket heater may be active in sanitizing. As aresult, the bucket can reach temperatures that may be considered too hotto handle or touch. The latch may remain locked during the sanitizationprocess to encourage the user not to open the lid. At step 2220, ifsanitization is complete, process 2200 proceeds to step 2230 or revertsto step 2210. At step 2230, the bucket heater, the bucket motor, and thelid heater are deactivated, but the lid fan continues to run so that thebucket is cooled a relatively rapid pace. Rapid cooling may be desirableso that the user can gain access to the bucket as quick as possible andto reduce the temperature of the bucket for safe handling.

It should be understood that the steps shown in FIG. 22 are illustrativeand the order of the steps may be changed, additional steps may beadded, or steps may be omitted.

FIG. 23 shows examples of lid closure enforcement according to anembodiment. Step 2310 can prevent the lid from opening while the OMPAhas a bucket temperature that exceeds an autolock temperature threshold.For example, the bucket can be heated to relatively high temperatures(e.g., such as 160 degrees F. or temperatures that are too hot for safehandling). When the temperature of the bucket is above the autolocktemperature threshold, the OMPA may keep the lid lock by controlling thelatch lock solenoid. In addition, the OMPA may use the lid motor to makeit difficult for the user to manually override the latch lock. In thisapproach, the OMPA may sense that the user is attempting to open the lidby observing the encoder, which can indicate that the lid is rotatingupwards. In response to this determination, the motor can then activateto rotate the lid back down.

In step 2320, the lid can be prevented from being opened if a lid lockfunction has been enabled. The lid lock may a user defined function(e.g., set by a parent) that prevents the lid from being opened unlessan override feature is enabled (e.g., via an application). This way, theowner or parent can prevent a guest, child, or pet from accessing theOMPA unless the appropriate override command is provided, or the lidlock function is turned off.

The OMPA according to embodiments discussed herein is operative toconvert OMPA input to OMPA output. In some embodiments, the OMPA outputis FOOD GROUNDS™. The FOOD GROUNDS™ can be produced using a OMPAprocessing algorithm designed to intelligently render OMPA input intoFOOD GROUNDS™ and to maintain the FOOD GROUNDS™ in a state that issuitable for delivery to an OMPA processor. The OMPA processingalgorithm exercises judicious control of airflow (e.g., via fans), heat(e.g., via heaters, grinding (e.g., via a cut and paddle assembly) basedon sensor data, time, time windows, interrupt events, and safetyrequirements. The OMPA processing algorithm can instruct the OMPA toprogress through several OMPA processing states to convert OMPA inputinto FOOD GROUNDS™. The algorithm is designed to maximize the quality ofthe FOOD GROUNDS™ dynamically transition between OMPA processing states(e.g., based on sensor data), and eliminate unnecessary powerconsumption.

FIG. 24 shows an illustrative process 2400 for controlling the OMPAaccording to an OMPA processing algorithm to produce OMPA outputaccording to an embodiment. OMPA processing algorithm 2420 receivesinputs 2410 and provides control signals 2430 to control operation ofthe OMPA to convert OMPA input to OMPA output or to maintain the OMPAoutput in a state suitable for delivery to an OMPA processor. Inputs2410 can include any of the data obtained from components or sensorsincluded in the OMPA, including, for example, the sensors and componentsshown and discussed in FIGS. 14, 15A, 15B, and 15C. Inputs 2410 caninclude any combination of sensor data sources such as temperaturesensors (e.g., temp sensor 1411 b, temp sensors 1423 a and 1423 b, ATSinlet temp sensor 1431, ATS outlet temp sensor 1432), relative humiditysensor (e.g., humidity sensor 1411 c, ATS inlet humidity sensor 1431,ATS outlet humidity sensor 1432), VOC sensors (e.g., VOC sensors 1411 a,1431 and 1432), mass sensors (e.g., mass sensors 1441 and mass processorand temperature sensor 1442). The sensor data sources can inform thealgorithm of the conditions within the OMPA. Inputs 2410 can includeswitch or sensor states such as lid switches 1414 and 1415, latch switch1416, safety switch 1418, electrical interface 1425, bucket presentswitch 1427, pedal switch 1450. The switch or sensor states may informthe algorithm of when the lid is open and closed and whether the bucketis inserted or removed from the OMPA. Inputs 2410 can also includeoperational characteristics of components such as lid heater 1412, lidfan 1413, bucket motor 1414, heater 1421, and ATS fan 1433. Theoperational characteristics can inform the algorithm of, for example,the spin direction of the motor, the grinding speed of the motor, thetorque experienced by the motor, the temperature setpoints of theheaters (e.g., lid heater 1412 and heater 1421), and the fan speed ofthe fans (e.g., lid fan 1413 and ATS fan 1433).

OMPA inputs 2410 can also include data or commands received from sourceslocated externally to the OMPA such as, for example, cloud based dataprovided by a proprietary server that is hosted by the same organizationthat provides the OMPA. The proprietary server may host a web-basedinterface or handle transactions implemented on an application locatedon a user's smart device. For example, a user may set a schedule usingthe application on his smart device and the proprietary server may relaythe schedule to the algorithm running in the OMPA. As another example,the proprietary service may communicate with various third party serversor other clients to obtain information (e.g., power utility information,weather information) or request (e.g., an OMPA output processor requestOMPA output to have a first set of characteristics) that can be providedto the OMPA processing algorithm. In some embodiments, the third partyservers or clients can interact directly with the OMPA.

OMPA processing algorithm 2420 is responsible for managing OMPAprocessing states and the transitions from one OMPA processing state toanother. Each OMPA processing state can cause the OMPA to operate in aparticular way by providing OMPA control signals 2430. Each processingstate can be designed to achieve a particular result in the process ofconverting OMPA input to OMPA output. The specifics of these states arediscussed in more detail below. The management of state transitions canbe based on a multitude of factors, including algorithm parameters,sensors/data inputs, user preferences (e.g., user schedule preferences),and third party data sources (e.g., utilities, weather, etc.). Thesefactors can enable OMPA processing algorithm 2420 to execute OMPA inputconversion in a robust manner that accounts for a large (e.g.,essentially infinite) number of variables, optimizes energy consumptionand associated costs (e.g., accounts for “green” factors such as greenenergy production (e.g., wind or solar produced power), varying utilitypower rates, environmental conditions, etc.), accounts for user schedulepreferences or monitored user presence, and also takes into accountdesired OMPA output parameters.

FIG. 25 shows an illustrative schematic diagram of various inputs thatare provided to an OMPA processing algorithm according to an embodiment.FIG. 25 includes OMPA processing states 2510 and state transitiontriggers 2520. State transition triggers can determine when the OMPAshould transition to another one of processing states 2510. FIG. 26shows eight different OMPA processing states that may be embodied by theoval representing states 2510 in FIG. 25 . As shown in FIG. 26 , theeight processing states include high intensity processing (HIP) state2610, Boost HIP state 2615, sanitize state 2620, cooldown state 2630,fixed low intensity processing (LIP) state 2640, burst LIP state 2650,vacation mode state 2660, and standby state 2670. The OMPA is instructedto perform (or not perform) various tasks depending on the statecurrently being executed. The arrows in FIG. 26 show illustrative statechange transition. The task(s) by OMPA for each of states 2610, 2615,2620, 2630, 2640, 2650, 2660, and 2670 is now discussed.

HIP state 2610 executes the primary desiccation function to reducemoisture content, mass, and volume of the OMPA input contained in theOMPA. HIP state 2610 may be selectively controlled to ensure that theentirety of the OMPA input—including pre-existing OMPA input that hasalready been converted to OMPA output and subsequently added OMPA inputinserted into the OMPA prior to execution of HIP state 2610—issubstantially converted to pre-sanitized OMPA output prior to transitionto sanitize state 2720. In HIP state 2610, the bucket heater can be setto a HIP bucket temperature (e.g., 80C), the lid fan can be set to runat a HIP fan speed, the motor can be set to run according to a HIPgrinding routine, and the lid heater may be optionally activated, forexample, depending on ambient conditions. If the ambient air meetspredefined heat and moisture criteria (e.g., the air is sufficiently hotand dry enough), then the lid heater may not be activated. However, ifthe ambient air does not meet the predefined heat and moisture criteria,then the lid fan may be activated during HIP state 2610. Followingcompletion of state 2610, the OMPA may transition to sanitize state2620.

Boost HIP state 2615 may be similar to HIP state 2610, but operates someof the same hardware used in HIP state at an increased rate. Forexample, the bucket heater may be set to a boost HIP temperature (e.g.,85C), which is higher than the HIP bucket temperature. In addition, thelid fan may be set to run at a boost fan speed, which is greater thanthe HIP fan speed. With the increase in lid fan speed, the ATS fan speedmay also be increased to ensure that ATS fans speed is equal to orgreater than the lid fan speed.

Sanitize state 2620 executes a sanitization function to convert allpre-sanitized OMPA output to a sanitized OMPA output. Sanitize state2620 is designed to eliminate or substantially reduce existence ofpathogens that may exist in the pre-sanitized OMPA output. In sanitizestate 2620, the bucket heater can be set to a sanitize buckettemperature (e.g., 96C), which may set to a higher temperature than theHIP bucket temperature, and the motor can be set to run according to asanitize grinding routing. The lid fan and the ATS fan may be set to runat a relatively slow speed (e.g., 1 CFM) to maintain a constant negativepressure that prevents any untreated air from escaping through the lidwhile in sanitize state 2620. The lid heater may be turned off.Following completion of state 2620, the OMPA may transition to cool downstate 2620. The OMPA may also transition to the cool down state even ifthere is an interrupt event (e.g., OMPA input is added) in the middle ofthe runtime of state 2620. Thus, although the addition of OMPA input mayprevent the OMPA from fully converting the OMPA input to OMPA outputduring this fixed time OMPA cycle, the newly added OMPA input may beconverted during the following fixed time OMPA cycle.

Cool down state 2630 executes a cool down function to rapidly cool downthe temperature of the bucket so that the bucket is safe to touch withbare hands (e.g., less than about 40 C). This enables a user to accessthe bucket (e.g., remove it from the OMPA) relatedly soon after it hasbeen subjected to high temperatures during states 2610 and 2620. Thecool down can be implemented by turning on the lid fan, but keeping thelid heater off, turning off the bucket heater, and running the motoraccording to a cool down grinding routine. For example, lid fan and theATS fan may be set to run at a relatively slow speed (e.g., 1 CFM) tomaintain negative pressure within the OMPA and to keep fan noise to aminimum. Moreover, because cool down state may potentially occur closeto a time frame in which users may be present, it is further desirableto run the fans at slower speeds so that air noise is kept to a minimum(so as not to disrupt the occupants). Following completion of state2630, the OMPA may return to standby state 2670. In the event OMPA inputis added during operation of state 2630, the OMPA may continue toexecute state 2630 for its designed runtime before reverting to thestandby state. The newly added OMPA input will be treated during thenext fixed time OMPA cycle.

Fixed LIP state 2640 preconditions the OMPA for transition to state2610. Fixed LIP state 2640 may run the motor according to a fixed LIPgrinding routine to ensure that the OMPA input does not include any hardstop material that prevents the grinding mechanism from operating asintended. The bucket heater, the lid fan, and lid heater are all turnedoff during state 2640. Keeping the heaters turned off enables the userto extract any hard stop material and unjam the OMPA while it is stillrelatively cool. If a hard stop material (e.g., an unbreakable bone orutensil) exists in the bucket, the owner can be notified via text,email, or notification on his or her smart device, and the OMPA mayindicate (e.g., via display) that a corrective action is required. It isdesirable to ensure that the motor will operate as intended throughoutHIP state 2610. Executing fixed LIP state 2640 can ensure that.Following completion of state 2650, the OMPA may return to standby state2670 or proceed to HIP state 2610.

Burst LIP state 2650 executes an immediate mixture of newly added OMPAinput with any pre-existing OMPA input or any pre-existing OMPA outputafter the new OMPA input is added and the lid is closed. Burst LIP state2650 may operate the motor according to a burst state grinding routinewhenever new OMPA input is added to the bucket. No fans and no heatersmay be active during burst LIP state 2650. A purpose of burst LIP state2650 is to mix newly added OMPA input with pre-existing and desiccatedOMPA output to integrate any moisture contained in the OMPA input withthe pre-existing OMPA output. In this manner, the moisture content ofmaterial contained in the bucket is at least partially distributed amongthe material, thus setting the OMPA up for more efficient operation ofHIP state 2610. In some embodiments, burst LIP state 2650 may beexecuted only if pre-existing OMPA output currently exists in thebucket. Following completion of state 2650, the OMPA may return tostandby state 2670.

Vacation mode HIP state 2660 maintains the OMPA output in a statesuitable for long-term storage by periodically running a HIP cycle onceevery “x” number of days when the lid has been closed and no new OMPAinput has been added for a relatively long duration. This way, afterOMPA output has been produced and resides in the bucket, but the userdoes not remove the OMPA output or does not use the OMPA for an extendedperiod of time, the OMPA can periodically execute the vacation mode HIPstate 2660. In state 2660, the bucket heater can be set to a vacationmode HIP bucket temperature (e.g., 80C), the lid fan can be set to runat a vacation mode HIP fan speed, the motor can be set to run accordingto a vacation mode HIP grinding routine, and the lid heater may beoptionally activated, for example, depending on ambient conditions.Following completion of state 2660, the OMPA may return to standby state2670.

Standby state 2670 executes a low power mode of OMPA operation. In thismode, all heaters, all fans, and the motor may be turned off. The OMPAcan transition to any one of states 2610, 2640, 2650, and 2660 dependingon state transition triggers.

In each of states 2610, 2615, 2620, 2630, 2640, 2650, and 2660, themotor may operate according to a state specific grinding routine. Somestates may share the same grinding routine, whereas others aredifferent. The grinding routine can include motor speed, motor currentlimit, grinder stall speed, motor current threshold, number of stallrecovery attempts, and motor direction.

It should be understood that the states shown in FIG. 26 are merelyillustrative and that additional states may be added or an existingstate may be omitted.

States 2610, 2615, 2620, 2630, 2640, 2650, 2660, and 2670 can beassigned respective priorities P1, P1 a, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6, and P7,where the priority of P1 is greater than P2, which is greater than P3,and so on. The priority of a given state can determine which state takespriority if there is a scheduling conflict among any two or more states.The priority P1 a of state 2615 can effectively be the same as priorityP1. Whether the OMPA operates in state 2610 or 2615 depends on whethercriteria for boost logic are met. The boost criteria is discussed belowin connection with FIG. 35 .

Referring now back to FIG. 25 , parameters that can determine statetransition triggers are now discussed. These parameters can includestate transition parameters 2530 and sensors/data 2540. Sensors/data2540 can include sensor data obtained from sensor such as temperaturesensors, humidity sensors, and VOC sensors, data from components such asswitches, and data provided by components being controlled by the OMPA.For example, sensor/data 2540 can include any of the data obtained fromthe sensors and components discussed in connection with FIGS. 14, and15A-15C. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 25 , sensors/data 2540 can beprovided to state transition triggers 2520 and state transitionparameters 2530. In another embodiment, sensors/data 2540 can beprovided to state transition parameters 2530, but not to statetransition triggers 2520. In this embodiment, the state transitionparameters 2530 may use the data received from sensors/data 2540 toexecute a state change transition.

State transition parameters 2530 can include time windows 2532, runtimes 2533, time 2534, interrupt event 2535, safety status event 2536,sensor/data control parameters 2537, and HIP entry and exit criteria2538. Time 2534 can refer to the time of day, for example, the localtime in the time zone in which the OMPA is located. A clock, residing inthe OMPA, can keep track of the local time (or any other time (e.g.,GMT)) and can provide the time to state transition triggers 2520.Interrupt event 2535 can be a user activated event that causes the lidof OMPA to open. Interrupt event 2535 may occur multiple times a day,for example, each time a user places OMPA input into the bucket. Inresponse to an interrupt event 2535, burst LIP 2550 may be executed fora fixed period of time (e.g., five or ten minutes) and the expiration ofthe fixed period of time, the OMPA may evert back to standby state 2670.Safety status event 2536 may occur when the safety monitor (e.g., safetymonitor 1620) or the MCU (e.g., MCU 1610) detects a safety event thatrequires activation of a safety protocol, as discussed above. The OMPAmay revert to standby state 2670 in response to detection of safetystatus event 2536. In some embodiments, an occurrence of interrupt event2535 may trigger safety status event 2536.

Sensor/Data control parameters 2537 can cause a state change transitionbased on data received from sensors/data 2540. For example, the sensordata may indicate that a humidity value has crossed a threshold thatsatisfies a condition for a state change transition, or the sensor dataincludes humidity, temperature, and mass data that supports criteria fora state change transition. In addition, sensor/data control parameters2537 can cause a change in hardware execution parameters 2570. Forexample, sensor data may cause the OMPA to operate differently within acurrently executed OMPA state. As a specific example, the OMPA mayactivate the lid heater and/or increase fan speed to avoid condensationwhile operating in the HIP state, based on the sensor data.

HIP entry and exit criteria 2538 can define various specific parametersthat govern operation of and transition from HIP state 2610. Entrycriteria for HIP state 2610 can include mass addition, interrupt event,and minimum runtime. The mass addition may define a minimum weight valueof OMPA input added during a fixed time OMPA cycle to justify executingHIP state 2610. The fixed time OMPA cycle can refer to a fixed period(e.g., a 24 hour period) during which the OMPA transitions throughseveral OMPA states to convert OMPA input to OMPA output. If the weightof the mass addition during the fixed time OMPA cycle does not exceedthe minimum weight value, then the condition the entry into the HIPstate may not be satisfied the HIP state may not necessarily be executedduring this fixed time OMPA cycle. There may be exceptions, however, incertain situations. For example, if the OMPA has been previously loadedwith substantial OMPA input that has not been fully converted to OMPAoutput, then the OMPA may execute the HIP state to resume conversion ofthe OMPA input to OMPA output. The occurrence of an interrupt event inwhich the lid has been opened and closed may be a prerequisite to entryto HIP state. For example, if the lid has not opened during the fixedtime OMPA cycle, then it can be inferred that no additional OMPA inputhas been added and that there is no need to execute the HIP state duringthis cycle (unless there is prior OMPA input already existing in theOMPA that requires further conversion). The minimum runtime can be aspecific runtime value selected for the runtime 2533 assigned to the HIPstate during a particular fixed time OMPA cycle. This runtime can bebased on a value obtained from look-up tables 2566.

HIP exit criteria can include expiration of the minimum runtime,expiration of a mass based runtime, satisfaction of absolute humiditydata, satisfaction of mass data, or satisfaction of a combination ofhumidity data and mass data. The absolute humidity criteria can refer toa delta change in humidity when the humidity is below a set humiditythreshold. For example, if the humidity is below a humidity thresholdand the change in humidity (e.g., the delta) remains within apredetermined range over set period of time (e.g., 30 minutes), then thehumidity criteria may be met. The mass data can refer to a delta changein mass criteria. For example, if the change in mass remains within apredetermined range over a set period of time, then the mass data may besatisfied. For example, if the mass remains relatively constant for afixed period time, it can be inferred that the mass has beensufficiently desiccated and the OMPA can transition to another state.The OMPA can transition to another state (e.g., sanitize state 2620)when the minimum runtime or the mass based runtime expires. The OMPA cantransition to another state prior expiration of the minimum runtime orthe mass based runtime the absolute humidity data, mass data, orcombination thereof is satisfied.

Time windows 2532 can define a time frame during which a particular OMPAprocessing state is permitted to be executed. The time frame can includea start time and an end time. Each OMPA processing state can be assigneda time window. The time windows for some processing states may be basedon time window parameters 2550, which can include default parameters2552, user configurable parameters 2554, look up tables 2556, or acombination thereof. The start time and the end time for one or moretime windows can be set to default values. For example, the start timeand end time of the time windows for standby state 2670 and Burst LIPstate 2650 can set to 8:00 AM and 12:00 AM, respectively. As anotherexample, the time window for vacation mode HIP state 2660 can have a12:00 AM start time and a 4:00 AM end time. Other OMPA processing statesmay have time windows that assigned a default start time or a userconfigurable start time and have a look up table based end time. Forexample, the time window for HIP state 2610 can have a default starttime (e.g., 8:00 PM) or a user configurable start time (e.g., 8:45 PM)and look-up table based end time (e.g., the selected start time plus alook-up table time value). The look-up table based end time can be basedon mass data and/or moisture data received from sensor/data 2540. Themass data can include the mass of new OMPA input added prior toexecution of HIP state 2610 or a combination of pre-existing massalready included in the bucket and the mass of new OMPA input. In someembodiments, the look-up table time value can be based only on massdata.

Run times 2533 can be assigned to each OMPA processing state. The runtime can serve as an initial guidepost for how long the OMPA operates ina particular state. After the run time has run its course, the OMPA cantransition to another state. In some embodiments, depending on datareceived from sensors/data 2540, the run time can be modified (e.g.,extended or shortened) to delay or speed up a state change transition.The run time can be set to zero (e.g., for standby state 2670), adefault or preset run time (e.g., for fixed LIP state 2640 and burst LIPstate 2650), or a look-up table run time (e.g., for HIP state 2610,sanitize state 2620, cool down state 2630, and vacation mode HIP state2660). In some embodiments, the run time assigned to a particularprocessing state may be equivalent to the look-up table based end timefor that state. For example, if the run time for one state is set to 2.5hours, the look-up table based end time for that particular state canalso be 2.5 hours.

Time window and run time parameter 2550 may receive inputs from variousthird party sources that influence selection of time windows andexecution of run times. For example, weather or environmental data 2562may be provided to parameters 2550. If the weather is cold and wet, thetime windows and run times may be adjusted to account for additionalpresence of moisture and colder temperatures. Or if the weather is hotand dry, the time windows and run times may be adjusted to account forwarmer temperatures and absence of moisture. Utility information 2564can provide utility rates (e.g., peak power and non-peak pricing) andthe source of the power (e.g., whether power is derived from a greenpower source such as solar or wind or whether the power is derived fromfossil fuel sources or nuclear sources). The time windows and run timescan be adjusted to minimize cost and to maximize use of green powersources to the extent possible. OMPA output parameters 2566 can specifythe desired characteristics of the OMPA output to be produced by theOMPA. OMPA output parameters 2566 may be provided by OMPA outputprocessor that receive the OMPA output and further process it to producea higher value good. For example, one entity may desire OMPA outputhaving a first moisture content (e.g., 10% by weight) whereas anotherentity may desire OMPA output having a second moisture content (e.g.,14% by weight), where the first and second moisture contents aredifferent. The time windows and run times can be adjusted to achieve thedesired OMPA output parameters.

Time window and run time parameter 2550 can include default parameters2552 and user configurable parameters 2554, and look-up table parameters2556. Default parameters 2552 can set time windows and run times foreach OMPA processing state. Default parameters 2552 can be the systemdefaults that are set at the factory or can be the default values thatare selected based on inputs from 2562, 2564, or 2566. Moreover, defaultparameters 2552 can be updated periodically as part of a standardsoftware update. User configurable parameters 2554 can set time windowsand run times for a subset of the OMPA processing states. In otherwords, a user can set a schedule for when the OMPA operates in variousstates, and in particular, the HIP state. The user configurableparameters can override one or more default parameters. For example, auser can set HIP state time window to commence at 10:30 PM (whereas thedefault setting may start the HIP state at 10:00). When a user sets thetime window for the HIP state, the time windows for other states such asthe sanitize and cool downs states may be automatically adjusted and setbased on the time window set for the HIP state. In addition, the timewindow for the fixed LIP state may also be set based on the user definedtime window for the HIP state. In some embodiments, user configurable2554 can include heuristic scheduling based on detected user presencewithin the vicinity of the OMPA. Look-Up table parameters 2566 candefine the run times for several OMPA states and the end time frame ofthe time window for several OMPA states. Look-up table parameters 2566may receive sensor/data 2540 information to select the appropriateparameters. In some embodiments, the look-up table parameters 2566 canbe updated as part of a routine software update.

FIG. 27A shows an illustrative look-up table for determining run timesfor the HIP state according to an embodiment. The look-up table showsthat the HIP runtime can be based on daily added mass, a minimum runtime, and a maximum run time. For example, if less 0.5 pounds ofmaterial is added, then the HIP state may be not run. If 0.5 to 1 poundsof matter are added, then the HIP run time can be set to the minimum runtime of 2.5 hours. If 3 pounds are added, then the HIP run time can beset to 7.5 hours (e.g., 2.5 times 3). If 6 pounds are added, then theHIP run time is set to the maximum runtime of 12.5 hours (even though2.5 times 6 is more than 12.5).

FIG. 27B shows an illustrative look-up table for determining run timesfor the sanitize processing state and the cool down processing state. Asshown, the run times for sanitize and cool down states can be based onthe total mass of the matter included in the bucket. This contrasts withdaily mass added for determining the HIP run time.

Returning back to FIG. 25 , hardware execution parameters 2570 are nowdiscussed. Hardware execution parameters 2570 can define how variouscomponents of the OMPA operate during each OMPA processing state. Forexample, during HIP state 2610, the bucket heater, the lid fan, and themotor are all active, with the lid heater being optionally activated.Parameters 2570 can set the operating conditions of each of theactivated components. For example, parameters can control the set pointtemperature of the heaters, the fan speed, and the HIP grinding schedulefor the motor. In some embodiments, depending (e.g., on parameters2550), parameters 2570 can dynamically control the operating conditionsof the activated components for any OMPA processing state.

FIG. 28 shows an illustrative chart showing the OMPA processing states,the time windows thereof, the run times thereof, and other information.FIG. 28 also shows hardware execution parameters for several componentssuch as the lid fan, ATS fan, bucket heater, and motor for the grinder.FIG. 28 also shows grinder stall cycles and stall recovery attempts. Thechart also indicates whether the grinder motor and lid heater areenabled for a particular state.

It should be understood that the values shown in FIG. 28 are merelyillustrative and are not limiting.

FIG. 29 shows an illustrative process 2900 for producing OMPA outputaccording to an embodiment. Process 2900 can be implemented in a OMPAsuch as OMPA 1300 or the OMPA of FIG. 14 . Starting at step 2905, afixed time OMPA processing cycle can be restarted. The fixed time OMPAprocessing cycle refers to a time period during which the OMPA receivesOMPA input and converts all or substantially all of the OMPA input toOPMA output by the of the time period. This time period can be a dailytime period (e.g., starting and ending at 8:00 AM). Process 2900 mayreceive pre-existing mass data at step 2910. The pre-existing mass datamay include previously processed OMPA input that has already beenconverted to OMPA output. At step 2915, time windows can be assigned tothe OMPA processing states (e.g., states 2610, 2620, 2630, 2640, 2650,2660, and 2670). The time windows can be assigned based on defaultparameters, user configurable parameters, look-up table parameters, or acombination thereof.

At step 2920, runtimes can be assigned to a first subset of the OMPAstates. In some embodiments, the first subset can include the OMPAstates that do not require a mass dependent runtime. The assignedruntimes for the first subset can be based on default values, forexample. OMPA input may be received during an OMPA input collectionperiod, at step 2925. The OMPA input collection period may represent apreferred time frame during which the user inserts matter into the OMPA.The preferred time frame may span from the start of the fixed time OMPAprocessing cycle and the start of the HIP state. In other words, theOMPA input collection period represents the time period when most or allof the OMPA input is inserted into the bucket and the user typically nolonger needs to insert any additional matter after the collectionperiod. The mass data and/or the relatively humidity data collectedduring and/or at the end of the OMPA input collection period (as shownin step 2930) typically represents the starting mass prior to executionof the HIP state. The mass measurements and/or moisture measurementtaken at the end of the collection period may be used to determine thetime windows and run times (by accessing the look-up tables). Runtimescan be assigned to a second subset of the OMPA states based on theobtained mass data and/or relatively humidity data and the receivedpre-existing mass data, as shown in step 2935. For example, the secondsubset can include the HIP, sanitize, and cool down states. At step2940, the time windows for the states included in the second subset maybe adjusted based on the mass data and/or relatively humidity data andthe received pre-existing mass data.

An OMPA processing algorithm is executed throughout the fixed time OMPAprocessing cycle by progressing through the OMPA processing statesbased, in part, on the time windows and the runtimes, as shown in step2945. At step 2950, a determination is made whether the fixed time OMPAprocessing cycle is complete. If no, process 2900 can revert back tostep 2945. If yes, process 2900 can proceed to step 2955 where the endof cycle mass and/or relative humidity data are obtained. Thepre-existing mass data is updated with the obtained end of cycle massdata at step 2960 and process 2900 reverts back to step 2905.

It should be understood that the steps shown in FIG. 29 are merelyillustrative and that additional steps may be added, the order of thesteps may be rearranged, and that steps may be omitted. Furthermore, oneor more of the steps can be modified. For example, step 2930 may bemodified to only collect mass data and not collect moisture data.

FIGS. 30A and 30B show an illustrative process 3000 for executing anOMPA algorithm according to an embodiment. Process 3000 may representsteps performed by step 2945 of FIG. 29 . Starting at step 3010, process3000 can determine which of a plurality of OMPA states to execute based,in part, on a time and time windows assigned to the OMPA states. Thedetermined processing state is a current processing state. The currentprocessing state can be executed for the runtime assigned to thatprocessing state, at step 3020. The relative humidity and mass can bemonitored to determine whether to transition to a different one of theplurality of processing states before the expiry of the runtime assignedto the currently executed processing state. The OMPA is outfitted withmoistures sensors and a mass sensing system and can determine a rate inwhich the OMPA input is being processed. In some scenarios, depending onthe characteristics of the OMPA input (e.g., the molecular structure andmoisture content of the matter contained in the bucket), the conversionrate from input to output may vary. As a result, the OMPA input canpotentially convert to OMPA output before the runtime of a particularstate expires or, alternatively, the runtime may not be long enough tosufficiently complete the conversion.

In step 3040, determination is made whether to transition to a next oneof the processing states based on the monitored relative humidity andmass. If the determination is yes, process 3000 can transition to thenext processing, at step 3070, where the next state becomes the currentexecuting state. Following step 3070, process 3000 can revert back tostep 3020. If the determination (at step 3040) is no, process 3000 canproceed to step 3050. At step 3050, a determination is made whether theruntime for the current processing state has expired. If thedetermination is no, process 3000 can proceed to step 3050. However, ifthe determination at step 3050 is yes, process 3000 can determine if therelative humidity is at a value that satisfies OMPA output criteria. Ifthe determination at step 3060 is yes, process 3000 can proceed to step3070. If the determination at step 3060 is no, the runtime can beextended (e.g., for a fixed period of time) for the currently executingprocessing state, at step 3080. Following step 3080, process 3000 canrevert back to step 3020.

It should be understood that the steps shown in FIG. 30 are merelyillustrative and that additional steps may be added, the order of thesteps may be rearranged, and that steps may be omitted.

FIG. 31 shows an illustrative process 3100 for handling OMPA inputduring execution a HIP state according to an embodiment. The OMPA isoperating in the runtime of a HIP state at step 3110. Process 3100 cancheck for a lid open event at step 3120. If there is no lid open event,process 3100 can revert back to step 3110. If there a lid open event,process 3100 can stop execution of the HIP processing state (at step3130) and obtain mass data during opening of the lid or immediatelyafter the lid has opened (at step 3140). This mass data measurementprovides a baseline for determining how much mass is being added by auser when the lid is open. Process 3100 can continue to cycle to step3150 until a lid close event, at which point, mass data is obtained atstep 3160. The delta in mass obtained at step 314 and at step 3160 canrepresent the added mass. This mass delta can be used to adjust theruntimes of the HIP state, a sanitize state, and cooldown state, at step3170. The OMPA can resume operation for the adjusted runtime of the HIPstate at step 3180.

It should be understood that the steps shown in FIG. 31 are merelyillustrative and that additional steps may be added, the order of thesteps may be rearranged, and that steps may be omitted.

FIG. 32 shows an illustrative process 3200 for using relative humiditydata to trigger a state transition according to an embodiment. Startingat step 3210, relative humidity data can be received from a lid RHsensor, an inlet RH sensor, and outlet RH sensor. The RH data can befiltered (e.g., using time averaging) to remove noise at step 3220. TheOMPA can begin runtime in the HIP state 3230. The received RH data canbe constantly monitored during the HIP state. At step 3240, process 3200can determine whether lid heater needs to be activated or not based onthe ambient air humidity being sensed by the lid RH sensor. If the RHdata received from the lid RH sensor falls below an ambient moisturethreshold (i.e., the air meets certain dryness criteria), the OMPA mayoperate the lid fan, the bucket heater, and the grinding mechanism, butnot the lid heater (in step 3250). This saves power consumption becausethe ambient air is sufficiently dry for the HIP state. If thedetermination at step 3240 is no, then the OMIPA may operate the lidfan, the lid heater, the bucket heater, and the grinding mechanism atstep 3260.

At step 3270, process 3200 can determine if the runtime for the HIPstate has expired or whether the filtered RH data indicates that thesanitize state should begin. Process 3200 can compared the filtered RHdata of lid RH sensor to the filtered RH data of the inlet RH sensor.When the filtered RH values of the lid and the inlet are the same orwithin a predetermined range to each other for a minimum period of time,then it can be assumed that the moisture level of the contents in thebucket have stabilized. If this moisture level satisfies OMPA outputcriteria, then OMPA processing algorithm can transition to the nextstate, which can be the sanitize state, as shown in step 3280.

It should be understood that the steps shown in FIG. 32 are merelyillustrative and that additional steps may be added, the order of thesteps may be rearranged, and that steps may be omitted.

FIG. 33 shows an illustrative timing diagram showing operation of theOMPA according to various OMPA processing states and measure sensorvalues according to an embodiment. As shown, FIG. 33 shows time, mass,delta between RH values measured by the lid RH sensor (e.g., sensor 1411c) and the inlet RH sensor (e.g., ATS inlet sensor 1431), the RH valuesmeasured by the inlet RH sensor, and the OMPA processing state. The timeshows a fixed time OMPA processing cycle of 24 hours, starting andending at 8:00 AM. The time diagram show a exemplary execution an OMPAprocessing algorithm throughout the fixed time OMPA processing cycle.Starting at time, to, the OMPA may be in the standby state (e.g., P7),the RH inlet value may be relatively low (because the prior fixed timeOMPA processing cycle has been completed), the delta value is near zeroor close to zero, and the mass is set to a pre-existing mass value (M1).At time, t₁, the user may insert OMPA input into the OMPA, causing theOMPA to transition to the burst LIP state (e.g., P5) for a period oftime. The OMPA may run the burst LIP grinding routine from time t₁ tot₂, during which time the inlet RH value and the mass values increase.From time, t₂ to t₃, the OMPA operates in the standby state. At time,t₃, the user may insert additional OMPA input. From time t₃ to t₄, theOMPA may operate in the burst LIP state. Note changes in mass and RHvalues during this time period. From time, t₄ to t₅, the OMPA mayoperate in the standby state. At time, t₅, the OMPA may operate in thefixed time LIP state to condition the OMPA input for the HIP state andto ensure that are no hard objects contained in the bucket that mayaffect grinder operation. At time, t₇, the HIP state (e.g., P4)commences and runs until time t₈. Note that the humidity value initiallyclimbs during the beginning of the HIP state and then starts to fall.Further note that the mass values fall during the HIP state due toelimination of the moisture contained in the OMPA input. At time, t₈,the OMPA transitions to the sanitize state (P2) and then transitions tothe cooldown state (e.g., P3) at time t₉. Note that the mass valuestabilizes at or near time t₈ and has mass value M2, which is greaterthan mass value M1. Further note that the inlet humidity values havefallen substantially by time t₈ and can continue to fall from time t₈ tot₁₀. The delta RH values are shown to zero or near zero by time t₉. TheOMPA can transition to the standby state at time t₁₀ and remain throughthe end of the fixed time OMPA processing cycle at time t₁₁.

FIG. 34 shows an illustrative timing diagram showing operation of theOMPA over several days and the corresponding mass values according to anembodiment. FIG. 34 shows days, mass, and states used over the course ofdays. From days 1 to 6, a combination of HIP (P1), sanitize (P2),cooldown (P3), fixed time LIP (P4), burst LIP (P5), and standby states(P7). Note that the mass steadily increases from day 1 to day 6. Fromday 6 to day 16, the device may remain in the standby state (P7). Then,during day 16, the vacation mode HIP cycle (P6) may run in addition tostandby state (P7). Then, during day 17, the user empties the contentsof OMPA, resulting in mass going back to a baseline value (e.g., zero).

FIG. 35 shows an illustrative table of lid heater logic according to anembodiment. The table shows the intake temperature and intake relativehumidity (RH) of the ambient air being drawn into the lid assembly, themass of OMPA input currently residing in the bucket, whether the lidheater is on or off. The OMPA may run the lid fan for a fixed period oftime (e.g., 10 minutes) to assess the temperature and humidity of theambient air being drawn into the lid. Based on the temperature, humidityand weight of the OMPA input contained in the bucket, the OMPA canemploy the logic defined in the table to determine whether to activatethe lid heater at the inception of the HIP state. As shown in the table,when the intake temperature is greater than 20 C, the intake humidity isbetween 0 and 50, and the mass has any value, the lid heater may beturned off. Based on these conditions, the air exist in a nominalcondition that is sufficiently warm and dry to be injected into thebucket and thus the heater does not need to be turned on, thereby savingpower by not running the heater. When the intake temperature the intakehumidity is less than 15 C, and the humidity has any value, and the masshas any value, the lid heater may be turned on. Based on theseconditions, the air exist in a cold state. When the intake temperaturehas a value of any, and the intake humidity is greater than 70, and themass has any value, the lid heater may be turned on. Based on theseconditions, the air exist in a humid state. When the intake temperaturehas a value of any, and the intake humidity has a value of any, and themass weights, for example, 3 pounds or more value, the lid heater may beturned on. Based on these conditions, the bucket exists in a “heavy”state and the lid heater is required for HIP state operation.

FIG. 36 shows an illustrative process 3600 for operating the OMPA in aboost mode to avoid condensation or to speed up the drying processaccording to an embodiment. Process 3600 may use the conditionsspecified in the logic table of FIG. 35 . Starting at step 3610, the lidheater may be activated if any one of the lid heater logic conditionsthat require the lid heater to be turned on is met. The OMPA algorithmmay specify how the lid heater, lid fan, and other hardware operate byconfiguring hardware execution parameters 2570. At step 3620, the lidfan may be operated at a boosted fan speed if two or more of the lidheater logic conditions that require the lid heater to be turned on aremet. The boosted fan speed may be faster than a normal fan speed for thelid fan. In some embodiments, if the lid fan is required to operate atthe boosted fan speed, other components in the OMPA may also operate ina “boosted mode” relative to a “normal mode.” For example, if theboosted fan speed is 15% faster than the normal fan speed, the ATS fanmay be also run 15% faster than normal when the lid fan is operating atthe boosted fan speed. In addition, the bucket heater may be instructedto run at a higher temperature than normal (e.g., 90 C in a boosted modeas opposed to 80 C in a normal mode during HIP). At step 3630, the OMPAcan transition to the standby state if the relative humidity is above apredetermined high humidity value (e.g., RH of 70) for a fixed period oftime (e.g., one or two hours). The OMPA may turn off if the humiditylevels are too high. This can protect OMPA from moisture damage andprevent premature deactivation of odor treating media contained in theair treatment media chamber. For example, a user may have inserted OMPAinput that has high water content such as soup. If the water content ofthe OMPA input too high, the OMPA can detect this and notify the userthat excessive moisture OMPA input is present and that it should beremoved.

It should be understood that the steps shown in FIG. 36 are merelyillustrative and that additional steps may be added, the order of thesteps may be rearranged, and that steps may be omitted.

FIG. 37 shows an illustrative timing diagram according to an embodiment.FIG. 37 shows time, mass, delta in humidity between the lid sensor andthe ATS inlet sensor, and the state. The humidity can be relativehumidity or absolute humidity. The mass of the OMPA input is measured tobe M1 prior to the start of the HIP state (P1) at time, t₁. The value ofthe mass M1 may fall into a category that requires the OMPA to run theHIP state for a minimum amount of time. Thus, the OMPA is scheduled torun from time, t₁, to time, t₂. Note that during the HIP runtime, themass stabilizes at a relatively constant mass and the delta humidityalso stabilizes at a relatively constant delta humidity before thetimeline reaches time, t₂. Thus, although the sensor data (e.g., stablemass and stable delta humidity) indicate that OMPA could transition tothe sanitize state before time, t₂, the OMPA may continue to run in theHIP state for the minimum runtime. Operating the OMPA in the HIP statefor the minimum run time may ensure that any latent release of moistureis effectively treated during the HIP state. For example, some OMPAinput items may be more resistant to releasing its moisture than otheritems. Thus, sufficient time is provided for the OMPA to extract anymoisture from all OMPA input contained therein. Moreover, even thoughthis illustrative timing diagram does not show a latent moisturerelease, there are scenarios in which moisture may be released later inthe HIP runtime.

FIG. 38 shows another illustrative timing diagram according to anembodiment. FIG. 38 shows time, mass, delta in humidity between the lidsensor and the ATS inlet sensor, and the state. The humidity can berelative humidity or absolute humidity. The mass of the OMPA input ismeasured to be M2 prior to the start of the HIP state (P1) at time, t₁.The value of the mass M2 may fall into a category that requires the OMPAto run the HIP state for a M2 based lookup table runtime, spanning fromtime t₁ to t₄, and which is a runtime greater than the minimum runtime.During the HIP runtime, the delta humidity and mass stabilize at timet₂. The OMPA may confirm that the delta humidity and mass remainstabilized for a fixed period of time (e.g., thirty minutes) beforetransitioning to the sanitize state at time t₃. In this illustrativetiming diagram, the OMPA transitions to the next state (e.g., thesanitize state) when the sensor data indicates that the humidity andmass values have stabilized prior to the end of the M2 runtime.

For a firmware and/or software implementation, the methodologies may beimplemented with modules (e.g., procedures, functions, and so on) thatperform the functions described herein. Any machine-readable mediumtangibly embodying instructions may be used in implementing themethodologies described herein. For example, software codes may bestored in a memory. Memory may be implemented within the processor orexternal to the processor. As used herein the term “memory” refers toany type of long term, short term, volatile, nonvolatile, or otherstorage medium and is not to be limited to any particular type of memoryor number of memories, or type of media upon which memory is stored.

Moreover, as disclosed herein, the term “storage medium” may representone or more memories for storing data, including read only memory (ROM),random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, magnetic diskstorage mediums, optical storage mediums, flash memory devices and/orother machine readable mediums for storing information. The term“machine-readable medium” includes, but is not limited to portable orfixed storage devices, optical storage devices, wireless channels,and/or various other storage mediums capable of storing that contain orcarry instruction(s) and/or data.

Having described several embodiments, it will be recognized by those ofskill in the art that various modifications, alternative constructions,and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of theinvention. Additionally, a number of well-known processes and elementshave not been described in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring thepresent invention. Accordingly, the above description should not betaken as limiting the scope of the invention.

Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that eachintervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unlessthe context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lowerlimits of that range is also specifically disclosed. Each smaller rangebetween any stated value or intervening value in a stated range and anyother stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed.The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently beincluded or excluded in the range, and each range where either, neitheror both limits are included in the smaller ranges is also encompassedwithin the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in thestated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits,ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are alsoincluded.

As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”,and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictatesotherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a process” includes aplurality of such processes and reference to “the device” includesreference to one or more devices and equivalents thereof known to thoseskilled in the art, and so forth.

Also, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” “include,” “including,” and“includes” when used in this specification and in the following claimsare intended to specify the presence of stated features, integers,components, or steps, but they do not preclude the presence or additionof one or more other features, integers, components, steps, acts, orgroups.

The following provides a listing of various claim sets focusing on OMPAsand the use thereof. The claims, including the incorporated disclosures,cover various embodiments or configurations, methods, algorithms, andstructures related to the embodiments defined herein. Features may bemixed between the various claim sets. Thus, various concepts covered inthese claims can be integrated into different embodiments. The statementsets below are organized into different concepts. Each statement can becombined with any other statement. References to “any previousstatement” expressly extend beyond just the particular subset ofstatements but refers to any of the statements below.

Statement 1. A method for controlling an organic matter processingapparatus (OMPA), the OMPA comprising a control unit, a first heater forheating a bucket assembly, a grinding mechanism, a first fan, a secondfan, a second heater for heating ambient air, a first humidity sensor,and a second humidity sensor, the method comprising:

-   -   receiving a plurality of OMPA algorithm inputs comprising        intra-device sensor data inputs including mass data and humidity        data, interrupt event inputs, and timing inputs including a        current time, time windows, and runtimes;    -   executing an OMPA algorithm that controls operation of the OMPA        to convert OMPA input to OMPA output by managing transitions        among a plurality of processing states, wherein each of the        plurality of processing states comprises a time window, a        runtime, and hardware execution parameters, and wherein        transitions among the plurality of processing states are based        on the received plurality of OMPA algorithm inputs; and    -   controlling operation of the OMPA according to the hardware        execution parameters of one of the processing states selected by        the OMPA algorithm.

Statement 2. The method of any preceding statement, further comprisingassigning time windows to each of the plurality of processing states,wherein the time window defines when the OMPA algorithm can transitionto that processing state.

Statement 3. The method of any preceding statement, wherein each timewindow comprises a start time and an end time, wherein the start timeand the end time is based on default parameters, user configurableparameters, look-up table parameters, or a combination thereof.

Statement 4. The method of any preceding statement, wherein theplurality of processing states comprise:

-   -   a high intensity processing (HIP) state;    -   a boost HIP state;    -   a sanitize state;    -   a cooldown state;    -   a fixed time low intensity processing (LIP) state;    -   a burst LIP state; and    -   a standby state.

Statement 5. The method of any preceding statement, wherein hardwareexecution parameters of the HIP state comprise a HIP bucket temperaturefor the first heater, a HIP fan speed for the first fan, a HIP grindingroutine for the grinding mechanism, and optional activation of thesecond heater.

Statement 6. The method of any preceding statement, wherein hardwareexecution parameters of the sanitize state comprise a sanitize buckettemperature for the first heater, a sanitize grinding routine for thegrinding mechanism, wherein the sanitize bucket temperature is greaterthe HIP bucket temperature, wherein the first fan and the second fanoperate at respective sanitize fan speeds, and wherein the second heateris turned off.

Statement 7. The method of any preceding statement, wherein hardwareexecution parameters of the cooldown state comprise respective cooldownfan speeds of the first fan and the second fan, and a cooldown grindingroutine, and wherein the first heater and the second heater are turnedoff.

Statement 8. The method of any preceding statement, wherein hardwareexecution parameters of the fixed time LIP state comprise a LIP grindingroutine and wherein the first fan, the first heater, and the secondheater are turned off, and wherein the burst time LIP state comprisesthe LIP grinding routine and wherein the first fan, the first heater,and the second heater are turned off.

Statement 9. The method of any preceding statement, wherein the burstLIP state is executed in response to an interrupt event that occurswithin the time window assigned to the burst LIP state;

-   -   wherein the fixed time LIP state is executed at a start of the        time window assigned to the fixed time LIP state;    -   wherein the HIP state is executed at the start of the time        window assigned to the HIP state;    -   wherein the sanitize state is executed immediately following an        end of the runtime of the HIP state; and    -   wherein the cooldown state is executed immediately following an        end of the runtime of the sanitize state.

Statement 10. The method of any preceding statement, wherein the secondfan is turned on during execution of the HIP state and the cooldownstate and turned off during execution of the standby state, the burstLIP state, the fixed time LIP state, and the sanitize state.

Statement 11. The method of any preceding statement, wherein hardwareexecution parameters of the standby state comprise non activation of thefirst heater, the second heater, the grinding mechanism, the first fan,and the second fan.

Statement 2. The method of any preceding statement, wherein theplurality of states further comprise a vacation mode state, whereinhardware execution parameters of the vacation mode state comprise a HIPbucket temperature for the first heater, a HIP fan speed for the firstfan, a HIP grinding routine for the grinding mechanism, and optionalactivation of the second heater, and wherein the second fan is turnedon.

Statement 13. The method of any preceding statement, wherein theruntimes specify how long the OMPA operates according to the hardwareexecution parameters for a particular processing state.

Statement 14. The method of any preceding statement, wherein eachruntime is based on default parameters or look-up table parameters,wherein the look-up table parameters use mass data to determine runtimesfor the HIP state, the sanitize state, and the cooldown state.

Statement 15. The method of any preceding statement, further comprising:

-   -   during the runtime of the HIP state, monitoring at least one of        the mass data and the humidity data to determine whether to        increase a duration of the runtime or to transition to another        one of the plurality of processing states;    -   increasing the duration of the runtime when at least one of the        mass data and the humidity data indicate that the OMPA input has        not been sufficiently converted to OMPA output; and    -   transitioning to another one of the plurality of states when at        least one of the mass data and the humidity data indicate that        the OMPA input has been sufficiently converted to OMPA output.

Statement 16. The method of any preceding statement, wherein theplurality of OMPA algorithm inputs further comprise:

-   -   weather data;    -   utility power data; and    -   OMPA output parameters.

Statement 17. An organic matter processing apparatus (OMPA), comprising:

-   -   a first heater for heating a bucket assembly and a second heater        for heating ambient air being forced into the bucket assembly;    -   a grinding mechanism driven by a motor;    -   a first fan for forcing ambient air into the bucket assembly and        a second fan for pulling untreated air from the bucket assembly;    -   a first humidity sensor for monitoring the ambient air and a        second humidity sensor for monitoring the untreated air;    -   a mass sensing system operative to measure mass; and    -   a control unit operative to:        -   receive humidity data from the first humidity sensor and the            second humidity sensor;        -   receive mass data from the mass sensing system; and        -   execute an OMPA algorithm that controls conversion of OMPA            input to OMPA output by managing transitions among a            plurality of processing states, wherein each processing            state comprises a time window, a runtime, and hardware            execution parameters that control the first heater, the            second heater, the motor, the first fan, and the second fan,            and wherein transitions among the plurality of processing            states are based on a schedule, the received mass data, and            the received humidity data.

Statement 18. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the scheduleis derived from the time window and runtime assigned to each processingstate.

Statement 19. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the controlunit is further operative to assign time windows to each of theplurality of processing states, wherein the time window defines when theOMPA algorithm can transition to that processing state.

Statement 20. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein each timewindow comprises a start time and an end time, wherein the start timeand the end time is based on default parameters, user configurableparameters, look-up table parameters, or a combination thereof.

Statement 21. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the pluralityof processing states comprise:

-   -   a high intensity processing (HIP) state;    -   a boost HIP state;    -   a sanitize state;    -   a cooldown state;    -   a fixed time low intensity processing (LIP) state;    -   a burst LIP state; and    -   a standby state.

Statement 22. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein hardwareexecution parameters of the HIP state comprise a HIP bucket temperaturefor the first heater, a HIP fan speed for the first fan, a HIP grindingroutine for the grinding mechanism, and optional activation of thesecond heater.

Statement 23. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein hardwareexecution parameters of the sanitize state comprise a sanitize buckettemperature for the first heater, a sanitize grinding routine for thegrinding mechanism, wherein the sanitize bucket temperature is greaterthan the HIP bucket temperature, wherein the first fan and the secondfan operate at respective sanitize fan speeds, and wherein the secondheater is turned off.

Statement 24. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein hardwareexecution parameters of the cooldown state comprise respective cooldownfan speeds of the first fan and the second fan, and a cooldown grindingroutine, and wherein the first heater and the second heater are turnedoff.

Statement 25. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein hardwareexecution parameters of the fixed time LIP state comprise a LIP grindingroutine and wherein the first fan, the first heater, and the secondheater are turned off, and wherein the burst time LIP state comprisesthe LIP grinding routine and wherein the first fan, the first heater,and the second heater are turned off.

Statement 26. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the burst LIPstate is executed in response to an interrupt event that occurs withinthe time window assigned to the burst LIP state;

-   -   wherein the fixed time LIP state is executed at a start of the        time window assigned to the fixed time LIP state;    -   wherein the HIP state is executed at the start of the time        window assigned to the HIP state;    -   wherein the sanitize state is executed immediately following an        end of the runtime of the HIP state; and    -   wherein the cooldown state is executed immediately following an        end of the runtime of the sanitize state.

Statement 27. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the secondfan is turned on during execution of the HIP state and the cooldownstate and turned off during execution of the standby state, the burstLIP state, the fixed time LIP state, and the sanitize state.

Statement 28. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein hardwareexecution parameters of the standby state comprise non activation of thefirst heater, the second heater, the motor, the first fan, and thesecond fan.

Statement 29. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the pluralityof states further comprise a vacation mode state, wherein hardwareexecution parameters of the vacation mode state comprise a HIP buckettemperature for the first heater, a HIP fan speed for the first fan, aHIP grinding routine for the grinding mechanism, and optional activationof the second heater, and wherein the second fan is turned on.

Statement 30. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the runtimesspecify how long the OMPA operates according to the hardware executionparameters for a particular processing state.

Statement 31. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein each runtimeis based on default parameters or look-up table parameters, wherein thelook-up table parameters use mass data to determine runtimes for the HIPstate, the sanitize state, and the cooldown state.

Statement 32. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the controlunit is further operative to:

-   -   during the runtime of the HIP state, monitor at least one of the        mass data and the humidity data to determine whether to increase        a duration of the runtime or to transition to another one of the        plurality of processing states;    -   increase the duration of the runtime when the least one of the        mass data and the humidity data indicate that the OMPA input has        not been sufficiently converted to OMPA output; and    -   transition to another one of the plurality of states when the at        least one of the mass data and the humidity data indicate that        the OMPA input has been sufficiently converted to OMPA output.

Statement 33. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the controlunit is further operative to:

-   -   operate the OMPA in the runtime of a HIP state;    -   in response to a lid open event:        -   stop execution of the HIP state; and        -   obtain first mass data during opening of the lid or            immediately after the lid has opened; and    -   in response to a lid close event:        -   obtain second mass data after the lid has closed;        -   adjust runtimes of the HIP state, a sanitize state, and a            cooldown state based on the second mass data; and        -   resume OMPA operation for the adjusted runtime of the HIP            state.

Statement 34. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the controlunit is further operative to:

-   -   filter the received humidity data to time average the received        humidity data, the time averaged humidity data comprise filtered        ambient air data and filtered untreated air data;    -   execute runtime of the OMPA in an HIP state;    -   if the filtered ambient air data has a moisture value that falls        below ambient moisture threshold, operate the first fan, the        first heater, and the motor but not the second heater;    -   if the filtered ambient air data has a moisture value that        equals or exceeds the ambient moisture threshold, operate the        first fan, the first heater, the motor, and the second heater;        and    -   transition to a sanitize processing state when the runtime for        the HIP state has expired or if the filtered untreated air data        has a moisture value that falls below an OMPA output moisture        threshold.

Statement 35. A method for controlling an organic matter processingapparatus (OMPA), comprising:

-   -   receiving OMPA output parameters defining a desiccation quantity        per unit of mass of OMPA output;    -   restarting a fixed time OMPA processing cycle;    -   receiving pre-existing mass data;    -   assigning respective time windows to a plurality of OMPA states;    -   assigning respective runtimes to a first subset of the plurality        of OMPA states;    -   receiving OMPA input during an OMPA input collection period;    -   obtaining mass data during or after an end of the OMPA input        collection period;    -   assigning respective runtimes to a second subset of the        plurality of OMPA states based on the obtained mass data and the        received pre-existing mass data; and    -   executing an OMPA algorithm by selectively progressing through        the OMPA states based, in part, on the time windows and the        runtimes to convert OMPA input to OMPA output that satisfies the        OMPA output parameters.

Statement 36. The method of any preceding statement, further comprising:

-   -   obtaining end of cycle mass data when the fixed time OMPA        processing cycle is complete; and    -   updating the pre-existing mass data with the end of cycle mass        data.

Statement 37. The method of any preceding statement, further comprisingadjusting time windows for the OMPA states included in the second subsetbased on the obtained mass data and the received pre-existing data.

Statement 38. The method of any preceding statement, further comprising:

-   -   obtaining relative humidity data during or after the end of the        OMPA input collection period; and    -   assigning respective runtimes to the second subset of the        plurality of OMPA states based on the obtained mass data, the        received pre-existing mass data, and the obtained relative        humidity data.

Statement 39. The method of any preceding statement, further comprising.further comprising adjusting time windows for the OMPA states includedin the second subset based on the obtained mass data, the receivedpre-existing data, and the obtained relative humidity data.

Statement 40. The method of any preceding statement, wherein theplurality of OMPA states comprise a standby state, a high intensityprocessing (HIP) state, a sanitize state, a cooldown state, a fixed timelow intensity processing (LIP) state, a burst LIP state, and a vacationmode state.

Statement 41. The method of any preceding statement, wherein the firstsubset of OMPA states include the standby state, the fixed LIP state,the burst LIP state, and the vacation mode state, and wherein the secondsubset of OMPA states include the HIP state, the sanitize state, and thecooldown state.

Statement 42. The method of any preceding statement, wherein the fixedLIP state is scheduled to be executed prior to the HIP state, whereinthe sanitize state is scheduled to be executed immediately after the HIPstate, and wherein the cooldown state is scheduled to be executedimmediately after the sanitize state.

Statement 43. The method of any preceding statement, wherein the burstLIP state is selected by the OMPA algorithm in response to aninterruption event the occurs during the time window assigned to theburst LIP state, wherein the interruption event comprises a lid openingevent.

Statement 44. The method of any preceding statement, wherein thevacation mode state is selected by the OMPA algorithm when OMPA outputexist within the OMPA and no new OMPA input has been added within afixed period of time.

Statement 45. The method of any preceding statement, wherein the OMPAinput collection period spans a time period between a beginning of therestart of the fixed time OMPA processing cycle and a beginning of a HIPstate.

Statement 46. The method of any preceding statement, wherein saidexecuting the OMPA algorithm comprises:

-   -   determining which of the OMPA states to execute based, in part,        on a time and the assigned time windows, wherein the determined        OMPA state is a current processing state;    -   executing the current processing state for the runtime assigned        to that processing state;    -   monitoring relative humidity and mass to determine whether to        transition to a different one of the plurality of OMPA states        before expiry of the runtime assigned to the current processing        state; and    -   transitioning to the different one of the plurality of OMPA        states when the monitored relative humidity, the monitored mass,        or a combination thereof support a pre-emptive state change        transition.

Statement 47. The method of any preceding statement, wherein saidexecuting the OMPA algorithm comprises:

-   -   determining which of the OMPA states to execute based, in part,        on a time and the time windows, wherein the determined OMPA        state is a current processing state;    -   executing the current processing state for the runtime assigned        to that processing state;    -   monitoring relative humidity and mass; and    -   when the runtime for the currently processing state has expired:        -   extending the runtime for the current processing state if            the monitored relative humidity, the monitored mass, or a            combination thereof do not satisfy OMPA output parameters;            and        -   transitioning to a different one of the plurality of OMPA            states when the monitored relative humidity, the monitored            mass, or a combination thereof satisfy OMPA output            parameters.

Statement 48. An organic matter processing apparatus (OMPA), comprising:

-   -   a first heater for heating a bucket assembly and a second heater        for heating ambient air being forced into the bucket assembly;    -   a grinding mechanism driven by a motor;    -   a first fan for forcing ambient air into the bucket assembly and        a second fan for pulling untreated air from the bucket assembly;    -   a first sensor for monitoring the ambient air and a second        sensor for monitoring the untreated air;    -   a mass sensing system operative to measure mass; and    -   a control unit operative to:        -   receive OMPA output parameters defining a desiccation            quantity per unit of mass of OMPA output;        -   restart a fixed time OMPA processing cycle;        -   receive pre-existing mass data;        -   assign respective time windows to a plurality of OMPA            states;        -   assign respective runtimes to a first subset of the            plurality of OMPA states;        -   receive OMPA input during an OMPA input collection period;        -   obtain mass data during or after an end of the OMPA input            collection period;        -   assign respective runtimes to a second subset of the            plurality of OMPA states based on the obtained mass data and            the received pre-existing mass data; and        -   execute the fixed time OMPA processing cycle by selectively            progressing through the OMPA states based, in part, on the            time windows and the runtimes to convert OMPA input to OMPA            output that satisfies the OMPA output parameters.

Statement 49. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein each OMPAstate comprises hardware execution parameters that specify how the firstheater, the second heater, the motor, the first fan, and the secondoperate during the runtime assigned to that OMPA state.

Statement 50. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the controlunit is further operative to:

-   -   obtain end of cycle mass data when the fixed time OMPA        processing cycle is complete; and    -   update the pre-existing mass data with the end of cycle mass        data.

Statement 51. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the controlunit is further operative to adjust time windows for the OMPA statesincluded in the second subset based on the obtained mass data and thereceived pre-existing data.

Statement 52. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the controlunit is further operative to:

-   -   obtain relative humidity data during or after the end of the        OMPA input collection period; and    -   assign respective runtimes to the second subset of the plurality        of OMPA states based on the obtained mass data, the received        pre-existing mass data, and the obtained relative humidity data.

Statement 53. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the controlunit is further operative to:

-   -   adjust time windows for the OMPA states included in the second        subset based on the obtained mass data, the received        pre-existing data, and the obtained relative humidity data.

Statement 54. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the pluralityof OMPA states comprise a standby state, a high intensity processing(HIP) state, a sanitize state, a cooldown state, a fixed time lowintensity processing (LIP) state, a burst LIP state, and a vacation modestate.

Statement 55. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the firstsubset of OMPA states include the standby state, the fixed LIP state,the burst LIP state, and the vacation mode state, and wherein the secondsubset of OMPA states include the HIP state, the sanitize state, and thecooldown state.

Statement 56. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the fixed LIPstate is scheduled to be executed prior to the HIP state, wherein thesanitize state is scheduled to be executed immediately after the HIPstate, and wherein the cooldown state is scheduled to be executedimmediately after the sanitize state.

Statement 57. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the burst LIPstate is selected by the OMPA algorithm in response to an interruptionevent the occurs during the time window assigned to the burst LIP state,wherein the interruption event comprises a lid opening event.

Statement 58. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the vacationmode state is selected by the OMPA algorithm when OMPA output existwithin the OMPA and no new OMPA input has been added within a fixedperiod of time.

Statement 59. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the OMPAinput collection period spans a time period between a beginning of therestart of the fixed time OMPA processing cycle and a beginning of a HIPstate.

Statement 60. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the controlunit is operative to:

-   -   determine which of the OMPA states to execute based, in part, on        a time and the assigned time windows, wherein the determined        OMPA state is a current processing state;    -   execute the current processing state for the runtime assigned to        that processing state;    -   monitor relative humidity and mass to determine whether to        transition to a different one of the plurality of OMPA states        before expiry of the runtime assigned to the current processing        state; and    -   transition to the different one of the plurality of OMPA states        when the monitored relative humidity, the monitored mass, or a        combination thereof support a pre-emptive state change        transition.

Statement 61. The OMPA of any preceding statement, wherein the controlunit is further operative to:

-   -   determine which of the OMPA states to execute based, in part, on        a time and the time windows, wherein the determined OMPA state        is a current processing state;    -   execute the current processing state for the runtime assigned to        that processing state;    -   monitor relative humidity and mass; and    -   when the runtime for the currently processing state has expired:        -   extend the runtime for the current processing state if the            monitored relative humidity, the monitored mass, or a            combination thereof do not satisfy OMPA output parameters;            and        -   transition to a different one of the plurality of OMPA            states when the monitored relative humidity, the monitored            mass, or a combination thereof satisfy OMPA output            parameters.

1. A method for controlling an organic matter processing apparatus(OMPA), the OMPA comprising a control unit, a first heater for heating abucket assembly, a grinding mechanism, a first fan, a second fan, asecond heater for heating ambient air, a first humidity sensor, and asecond humidity sensor, the method comprising: receiving a plurality ofOMPA algorithm inputs comprising intra-device sensor data inputsincluding mass data and humidity data, interrupt event inputs, andtiming inputs including a current time, time windows, and runtimes;executing an OMPA algorithm that controls operation of the OMPA toconvert OMPA input to OMPA output by managing transitions among aplurality of processing states, wherein each of the plurality ofprocessing states comprises a time window, a runtime, and hardwareexecution parameters, and wherein transitions among the plurality ofprocessing states are based on the received plurality of OMPA algorithminputs; and controlling operation of the OMPA according to the hardwareexecution parameters of one of the processing states selected by theOMPA algorithm.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising assigningtime windows to each of the plurality of processing states, wherein thetime window defines when the OMPA algorithm can transition to thatprocessing state.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein each time windowcomprises a start time and an end time, wherein the start time and theend time is based on default parameters, user configurable parameters,look-up table parameters, or a combination thereof.
 4. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the plurality of processing states comprise: a highintensity processing (HIP) state; a boost HIP state; a sanitize state; acooldown state; a fixed time low intensity processing (LIP) state; aburst LIP state; and a standby state.
 5. The method of claim 4, whereinhardware execution parameters of the HIP state comprise a HIP buckettemperature for the first heater, a HIP fan speed for the first fan, aHIP grinding routine for the grinding mechanism, and optional activationof the second heater.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein hardwareexecution parameters of the sanitize state comprise a sanitize buckettemperature for the first heater, a sanitize grinding routine for thegrinding mechanism, wherein the sanitize bucket temperature is greaterthe HIP bucket temperature, wherein the first fan and the second fanoperate at respective sanitize fan speeds, and wherein the second heateris turned off.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein hardware executionparameters of the cooldown state comprise respective cooldown fan speedsof the first fan and the second fan, and a cooldown grinding routine,and wherein the first heater and the second heater are turned off. 8.The method of claim 7, wherein hardware execution parameters of thefixed time LIP state comprise a LIP grinding routine and wherein thefirst fan, the first heater, and the second heater are turned off, andwherein the burst time LIP state comprises the LIP grinding routine andwherein the first fan, the first heater, and the second heater areturned off.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the burst LIP state isexecuted in response to an interrupt event that occurs within the timewindow assigned to the burst LIP state; wherein the fixed time LIP stateis executed at a start of the time window assigned to the fixed time LIPstate; wherein the HIP state is executed at the start of the time windowassigned to the HIP state; wherein the sanitize state is executedimmediately following an end of the runtime of the HIP state; andwherein the cooldown state is executed immediately following an end ofthe runtime of the sanitize state.
 10. The method of claim 8, whereinthe second fan is turned on during execution of the HIP state and thecooldown state and turned off during execution of the standby state, theburst LIP state, the fixed time LIP state, and the sanitize state. 11.The method of claim 8, wherein hardware execution parameters of thestandby state comprise non activation of the first heater, the secondheater, the grinding mechanism, the first fan, and the second fan. 12.The method of claim 4, wherein the plurality of states further comprisea vacation mode state, wherein hardware execution parameters of thevacation mode state comprise a HIP bucket temperature for the firstheater, a HIP fan speed for the first fan, a HIP grinding routine forthe grinding mechanism, and optional activation of the second heater,and wherein the second fan is turned on.
 13. The method of claim 1,wherein the runtimes specify how long the OMPA operates according to thehardware execution parameters for a particular processing state.
 14. Themethod of claim 10, wherein each runtime is based on default parametersor look-up table parameters, wherein the look-up table parameters usemass data to determine runtimes for the HIP state, the sanitize state,and the cooldown state.
 15. The method of claim 1, further comprising:during the runtime of the HIP state, monitoring at least one of the massdata and the humidity data to determine whether to increase a durationof the runtime or to transition to another one of the plurality ofprocessing states; increasing the duration of the runtime when at leastone of the mass data and the humidity data indicate that the OMPA inputhas not been sufficiently converted to OMPA output; and transitioning toanother one of the plurality of states when at least one of the massdata and the humidity data indicate that the OMPA input has beensufficiently converted to OMPA output.
 16. The method of claim 1,wherein the plurality of OMPA algorithm inputs further comprise: weatherdata; utility power data; and OMPA output parameters.
 17. An organicmatter processing apparatus (OMPA), comprising: a first heater forheating a bucket assembly and a second heater for heating ambient airbeing forced into the bucket assembly; a grinding mechanism driven by amotor; a first fan for forcing ambient air into the bucket assembly anda second fan for pulling untreated air from the bucket assembly; a firsthumidity sensor for monitoring the ambient air and a second humiditysensor for monitoring the untreated air; a mass sensing system operativeto measure mass; and a control unit operative to: receive humidity datafrom the first humidity sensor and the second humidity sensor; receivemass data from the mass sensing system; and execute an OMPA algorithmthat controls conversion of OMPA input to OMPA output by managingtransitions among a plurality of processing states, wherein eachprocessing state comprises a time window, a runtime, and hardwareexecution parameters that control the first heater, the second heater,the motor, the first fan, and the second fan, and wherein transitionsamong the plurality of processing states are based on a schedule, thereceived mass data, and the received humidity data.
 18. The OMPA ofclaim 1, wherein the schedule is derived from the time window andruntime assigned to each processing state.
 19. The OMPA of claim 17,wherein the control unit is further operative to assign time windows toeach of the plurality of processing states, wherein the time windowdefines when the OMPA algorithm can transition to that processing state.20. The OMPA of claim 19, wherein each time window comprises a starttime and an end time, wherein the start time and the end time is basedon default parameters, user configurable parameters, look-up tableparameters, or a combination thereof.
 21. The OMPA of claim 17, whereinthe plurality of processing states comprise: a high intensity processing(HIP) state; a boost HIP state; a sanitize state; a cooldown state; afixed time low intensity processing (LIP) state; a burst LIP state; anda standby state.
 22. The OMPA of claim 21, wherein hardware executionparameters of the HIP state comprise a HIP bucket temperature for thefirst heater, a HIP fan speed for the first fan, a HIP grinding routinefor the grinding mechanism, and optional activation of the secondheater.
 23. The OMPA of claim 22 wherein hardware execution parametersof the sanitize state comprise a sanitize bucket temperature for thefirst heater, a sanitize grinding routine for the grinding mechanism,wherein the sanitize bucket temperature is greater than the HIP buckettemperature, wherein the first fan and the second fan operate atrespective sanitize fan speeds, and wherein the second heater is turnedoff.
 24. The OMPA of claim 23, wherein hardware execution parameters ofthe cooldown state comprise respective cooldown fan speeds of the firstfan and the second fan, and a cooldown grinding routine, and wherein thefirst heater and the second heater are turned off.
 25. The OMPA of claim24, wherein hardware execution parameters of the fixed time LIP statecomprise a LIP grinding routine and wherein the first fan, the firstheater, and the second heater are turned off, and wherein the burst timeLIP state comprises the LIP grinding routine and wherein the first fan,the first heater, and the second heater are turned off.
 26. The OMPA ofclaim 25, wherein the burst LIP state is executed in response to aninterrupt event that occurs within the time window assigned to the burstLIP state; wherein the fixed time LIP state is executed at a start ofthe time window assigned to the fixed time LIP state; wherein the HIPstate is executed at the start of the time window assigned to the HIPstate; wherein the sanitize state is executed immediately following anend of the runtime of the HIP state; and wherein the cooldown state isexecuted immediately following an end of the runtime of the sanitizestate.
 27. The OMPA of claim 25, wherein the second fan is turned onduring execution of the HIP state and the cooldown state and turned offduring execution of the standby state, the burst LIP state, the fixedtime LIP state, and the sanitize state.
 28. The OMPA of claim 25,wherein hardware execution parameters of the standby state comprise nonactivation of the first heater, the second heater, the motor, the firstfan, and the second fan.
 29. The method of claim 21, wherein theplurality of states further comprise a vacation mode state, whereinhardware execution parameters of the vacation mode state comprise a HIPbucket temperature for the first heater, a HIP fan speed for the firstfan, a HIP grinding routine for the grinding mechanism, and optionalactivation of the second heater, and wherein the second fan is turnedon.
 30. The OMPA of claim 17, wherein the runtimes specify how long theOMPA operates according to the hardware execution parameters for aparticular processing state.
 31. The OMPA of claim 30, wherein eachruntime is based on default parameters or look-up table parameters,wherein the look-up table parameters use mass data to determine runtimesfor the HIP state, the sanitize state, and the cooldown state.
 32. TheOMPA of claim 17, wherein the control unit is further operative to:during the runtime of the HIP state, monitor at least one of the massdata and the humidity data to determine whether to increase a durationof the runtime or to transition to another one of the plurality ofprocessing states; increase the duration of the runtime when the leastone of the mass data and the humidity data indicate that the OMPA inputhas not been sufficiently converted to OMPA output; and transition toanother one of the plurality of states when the at least one of the massdata and the humidity data indicate that the OMPA input has beensufficiently converted to OMPA output.
 33. The OMPA of claim 17, whereinthe control unit is further operative to: operate the OMPA in theruntime of a HIP state; in response to a lid open event: stop executionof the HIP state; and obtain first mass data during opening of the lidor immediately after the lid has opened; and in response to a lid closeevent: obtain second mass data after the lid has closed; adjust runtimesof the HIP state, a sanitize state, and a cooldown state based on thesecond mass data; and resume OMPA operation for the adjusted runtime ofthe HIP state.
 34. The OMPA of claim 17, wherein the control unit isfurther operative to: filter the received humidity data to time averagethe received humidity data, the time averaged humidity data comprisefiltered ambient air data and filtered untreated air data; executeruntime of the OMPA in an HIP state; if the filtered ambient air datahas a moisture value that falls below ambient moisture threshold,operate the first fan, the first heater, and the motor but not thesecond heater; if the filtered ambient air data has a moisture valuethat equals or exceeds the ambient moisture threshold, operate the firstfan, the first heater, the motor, and the second heater; and transitionto a sanitize processing state when the runtime for the HIP state hasexpired or if the filtered untreated air data has a moisture value thatfalls below an OMPA output moisture threshold. 35.-61. (canceled)